Crime
Troops of OPWS Foil Kidnap Attempt, Rescue Warrant Officer and Nine Others in Benue
From Dooshima Terkura, Makurdi
Troops of the Joint Task Force, Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS), have once again demonstrated professionalism and dedication by foiling a kidnapping attempt and rescuing ten victims from armed kidnappers in Benue State.
Among the rescued victims was Warrant Officer John Richard, a personnel of the 6 Brigade Band, Jalingo. Two other victims are still missing as search efforts continue.
The Force Commander of OPWS, Major General Moses Gara, disclosed this in a statement signed by Acting Media Information Officer, Headquarters JTF OPWS, Lieutenant Ahmad Zubairu, and made available to journalists in Makurdi on Thursday.
According to the statement, “On 3 November 2025, troops deployed at Kyado, while on mobile patrol along the Zaki-Biam–Wukari road, received credible intelligence about ongoing kidnapping activities at a location identified as Quarantine Checkpoint.
“The kidnappers were said to be disguised in police uniforms, attempting to deceive unsuspecting road users.
“Upon receiving the information, the troops swiftly mobilized to the scene. On sighting the approaching soldiers, the kidnappers fled in disarray into nearby bushes. The troops immediately pursued them and, after tracking their movements deep into the forest, successfully rescued ten kidnapped victims.”
Major General Gara said the rescued persons were kept in safe custody, debriefed, and later handed over to the appropriate authorities for further action.
He commended the troops for their gallantry, quick response, and unwavering commitment to protecting innocent citizens. The Force Commander also lauded the tactical commander for his exemplary leadership and proactive measures in combating criminality in the area.
Gara assured the troops that their sacrifices and dedication would not go unrewarded, urging them to sustain the momentum, maintain high morale, and continue to uphold discipline and professionalism in all operations.