Troops of the Joint Task Force, Operation Whirl Stroke (JTF OPWS), have successfully rescued six individuals who were abducted near Gbise community in Katsina-Ala Local Government Area of Benue State. The rescue operation took place on September 25 during a routine patrol by military personnel in the area. Acting Media Information Officer of the task force, Lt. Ahmad Zubairu, confirmed the development in a statement issued in Makurdi on Saturday. He stated that the troops acted swiftly based on credible intelligence about the location of the kidnapped persons.
The rescued victims include Gabriel Enujuba, 50; Samson Magbo, 43; Alkasim Modu, 27; Manzo Bello, 27; Sani Abdullahi, 25; and Munza Yusuf, 25. Initial investigations revealed that five of the victims were abducted along the Chenchengi-Takum road, a route frequently used by commuters and traders. Yusuf, however, was reportedly kidnapped from his residence in the Ahmadu general area of Takum Local Government Area in Taraba State, highlighting the cross-state nature of criminal activities in the region.
Following the successful rescue, the victims were taken to a secure location where they received medical attention and psychological support. Authorities are now working to determine the identities of the abductors and gather more evidence for possible arrests. Lt. Zubairu emphasized that the task force has intensified intelligence-driven operations aimed at dismantling criminal networks involved in kidnapping and other violent crimes.
Security personnel are also increasing patrols along major roads and in vulnerable communities to prevent future attacks. The task force is expanding its human intelligence network to enhance early detection and swift response to security threats. Zubairu urged all security operatives to remain vigilant, proactive, and ready to respond to emerging challenges in real time.
He reaffirmed the commitment of Operation Whirl Stroke to reducing crime and ensuring the safety of lives and property across its operational zone. Ongoing operations will continue to focus on creating a safer environment for residents, farmers, traders, and commuters. The success of this rescue underscores the effectiveness of coordinated intelligence and swift military action in combating insecurity in Nigeria’s northern regions. As security forces maintain their efforts, communities are encouraged to cooperate with authorities to help dismantle criminal networks and restore peace.
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