MAKURDI – Troops of the Joint Task Force, Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS), have rescued ten kidnap victims in Benue State, including a military officer.
According to a statement from the force, the rescue operation occurred on November 3, 2025, after troops on patrol received intelligence about kidnappers disguised in police uniforms operating a fake checkpoint along the Zaki-Biam–Wukari Road.
Upon the troops’ arrival, the kidnappers fled into a nearby forest. A pursuit led to the rescue of ten victims, among them Warrant Officer John Richard of the 6 Brigade Band in Jalingo.
The Force Commander, Maj.-Gen. Moses Gara, commended the troops for their “gallantry, swift response, and commitment to protecting innocent citizens.” Search operations are ongoing for two missing victims.
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Disclaimer: This report is based on an official statement from the Military Information Officer of Operation Whirl Stroke. CDA News cannot independently verify all details of the operation. The situation in the area remains dynamic.
