Soldiers foil kidnap attempt, rescue hostages in Benue

Troops of Operation Whirl Stroke, OPWS, have foiled a kidnapping attempt and rescued ten hostages, including a military personnel, from armed kidnappers in Benue State.

This is following a tip-off about the kidnappers’ activities along the Zaki-Biam–Wukari Road in Benue State.

The operation took place when troops deployed at Kyado received reports about suspicious activities around a location known as Quarantine Checkpoint, where the kidnappers were attempting to abduct unsuspecting travelers.

The soldiers, acting swiftly, arrived the scene and the criminals fled into nearby bushes on sighting them.

The troops gave them a hot pursuit and followed the suspected criminals into the bush and effected rescue ten hostages.

Those rescued by the troops include Warrant Officer John Richard, a personnel of 6 Brigade Band, Jalingo, while two other victims are still unaccounted for as search operations continue.

The rescued persons were later debriefed and handed over to appropriate authorities for further action.

Commending the troops for their professionalism and bravery, the Force Commander of Operation Whirl Stroke, Maj.Gen Moses Gara, lauded their swift response and dedication to duty.

He also praised the tactical commander for his proactive leadership in combating criminal activities within the area.

Gen. Gara assured the troops that their sacrifices would be duly recognized and rewarded, urging them to sustain the tempo, remain disciplined, and continue protecting law-abiding citizens across the operational zone.

He reaffirmed OPWS’s commitment to eliminating criminal networks and restoring peace and security in Benue and neighbouring states.