Benue: Troops foil kidnapping plot, rescue 10 hostages

From Scholastica Hir, Makurdi

Troops of Joint Task Force, Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS), have once again demonstrated professionalism and commitment to duty by thwarting a kidnapping attempt and rescuing 10 victims from armed kidnappers in Benue State.

The Force Commander, OPWS, Major General Moses Gara, disclosed this in a statement signed by Acting Media Information Officer, HQ JTF Operation OPWS, Lieutenant Ahmad Zubairu, and made available to newsmen in Makurdi on Thursday.

The Commander said, “On 3 November 2025, troops deployed at Kyado, while on mobile patrol along Road Zaki-Biam–Wukari, received credible intelligence about ongoing kidnapping activities at a location identified as Quarantine Checkpoint.

“The kidnappers were reported to be disguised in police uniforms, attempting to deceive unsuspecting road users.

“Upon receiving the information, the troops mobilised swiftly to the scene. On sighting the approaching soldiers, the kidnappers fled in disarray into nearby bushes.

“The troops immediately pursued the fleeing suspects, following their tracks deep into the forest. During the search operations, 10 kidnapped victims were successfully rescued.”

Among those rescued was Warrant Officer John Richard, a personnel of 6 Brigade Band, Jalingo, while two other victims are still unaccounted for as search operations continue.

The Commander said the rescued individuals were kept in safe custody and debriefed before being handed over to the appropriate authorities for further action.

The Force Commander OPWS commended the troops for their gallantry, swift response, and commitment to protecting innocent citizens and particularly lauded the tactical Commander for his exemplary leadership and proactive measures in combating criminal activities within the general area.

He further assured the troops that their sacrifices and dedication will never go unrewarded, urging them to sustain the tempo, maintain high morale, and continue to uphold the tenets of discipline and professionalism in all operations.