Freedom has come for six kidnapped victims, including a baby, in Taraba State following the quick intervention by troops of the 6 Brigade, Nigerian Army, Sector 3 of Operation Whirl Stroke, in collaboration with operatives of the Nigeria Police Force (NPF).
Reports indicated that the rescue operation, conducted early on Thursday morning, was part of the ongoing Operation Lafiya Nakowa, a security initiative targeted at criminal elements and ensuring peace returns to the North East state.
A statement by Acting Assistant Director of Army Public Relations for the 6 Brigade, Lieutenant Umar Muhammad, said the victims were abducted on October 2 after suspected kidnappers ambushed a Toyota Carina II traveling from Katsina-Ala in Benue State.
According to the statement, the kidnappers reportedly forced the vehicle to stop near an abandoned checkpoint and immediately whisked the passengers into the nearby bush.
The Brigade’s Spokesman disclosed that acting on credible intelligence, troops and police personnel launched a coordinated search-and-rescue mission, leading to the safe recovery of all six hostages, including the driver and five passengers.
The statement identified the six rescued victims as Mr. Terna Gbaya, Mr. Musa Adamu, Mrs. Rose Sor (35), Mrs. Lydia Vyiashima, Mrs. Comfort Iyofar, and a baby.
It was further gathered that they have since been reunited with their respective families.
Reacting to the development, Commander of the 6 Brigade, Brigadier General Kingsley Chidiebere Uwa, lauded the professionalism and swift response of the joint forces.
He also reiterated the Brigade’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property across Taraba State while urging residents to continuously support security agencies by providing timely and credible information.
The Brigade Commander said such robust public cooperation with relevant security would aid ongoing efforts against crimes and criminality within the region.
