Troops of OPWS rescue kidnap victim, recover arms in Benue

From Scholastica Hir, Makurdi

Troops of the Joint Task Force Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) said they have again recorded a major breakthrough in the fight against armed banditry and kidnapping in Benue State, following a successful operation in Katsina-Ala Local Government Area that led to the rescue of a kidnap victim and recovery of weapons.

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

General Gara said troops deployed in Katsina-Ala LGA received credible intelligence about the activities of armed bandits suspected to be behind kidnapping incidents around Agera Nagu in Mbagina, Michihe Council Ward.

Acting swiftly, the troops in conjunction with operatives of the Benue State Civil Protection Guard (BSCPG) moved to the location.

On arrival, a firefight ensued with the criminals who were overwhelmed by the firepower of the gallant soldiers. The criminals fled in disarray, abandoning their victim, Mr Teryima Torbee, a 43-year-old man, who was immediately rescued unhurt.

Subsequent exploitation of the general area led to the recovery of a cache of arms which included one FN rifle, five magazines, and 83 rounds of 7.62mm NATO ammunition.

He said the operation has since restored calm in the community, with troops maintaining aggressive patrols to dominate the general area.

Major General Gara commended the troops for their resilience, professionalism, and swift response which ensured the safe rescue of the victim and recovery of the weapons.

He also appreciated the cooperation of the operatives of the Civil Protection Guard and called on communities to sustain cooperation through timely information-sharing with security agencies.

He said synergy and collaboration remain key to defeating criminal gangs and restoring lasting peace.

The Commander further reaffirmed the commitment of OPWS to continue its relentless operations to rid Benue and adjoining states of criminal elements.