Troops of Nigerian Army Rescue Kidnap Victims in Taraba State: How Brave Soldiers Thwarted a Deadly Abduction Attempt in Takum LGA
In a powerful demonstration of bravery, discipline, and dedication to national security, troops of the 6 Brigade Nigerian Army and Sector 3 of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) successfully foiled a kidnap attempt and rescued three innocent victims in Chanchangi village, located in Takum Local Government Area (LGA) of Taraba State, Nigeria. This dramatic rescue mission has not only restored hope to the local community but also highlights the Nigerian Army's tireless commitment to the safety and security of lives and property across the country.
According to a detailed press statement released on Saturday, May 24, 2025, by Captain Olubodunde Oni, the Acting Assistant Director of Army Public Relations for the 6 Brigade, the incident occurred during a routine patrol and picketing operation along the busy Takum–Chanchangi Road, a route that has in recent times experienced increased security surveillance due to growing cases of banditry and kidnapping.
“On approaching the Uko community axis, the vigilant troops made contact with suspected armed bandits who had already kidnapped three individuals traveling in a vehicle,” the statement read.
How the Kidnap Attempt Unfolded in Taraba State
The troops, who were on a routine operation designed to detect and deter criminal activity, were moving strategically through the Uko community area — a known hotspot for recent bandit operations. It was during this patrol that they stumbled upon a deeply troubling scene: armed bandits had waylaid a vehicle and kidnapped three individuals.
Before the soldiers could even engage, the suspected kidnappers spotted the troops approaching. Realizing they were no match for the Nigerian Army's firepower and tactical advantage, the criminals quickly abandoned their captives and escaped into the thick forests surrounding the area.
“Upon sighting the troops, the kidnappers hastily abandoned their captives and fled into the surrounding forest,” the army stated.
However, this was not the end of the operation. The soldiers acted swiftly and decisively, chasing after the criminals and engaging them in a brief but intense gunfire exchange. The fleeing bandits, unable to withstand the superior firepower and tactical maneuvering of the Nigerian Army, retreated further into the dense bush. Unfortunately, despite the military’s pursuit, the criminals managed to escape, but not without leaving behind critical evidence.
“The troops immediately launched a hot pursuit and engaged the criminals in a brief exchange of fire, forcing them to retreat further into the bush.”
All Three Victims Rescued Alive and Unhurt
The most critical outcome of the entire operation was the safe rescue of the kidnapped victims. Among those rescued was Alhaji Ali, the Sariki Pawa of Takum, a prominent figure in the community. The identity of the other two victims has not yet been disclosed to the public, but the Army confirmed that all three individuals were unharmed and have since been reunited with their families.
“All three kidnapped victims were successfully rescued unhurt, including Alhaji Ali, the Sariki Pawa of Takum,” the army said.
Additionally, the soldiers recovered the vehicle used by the victims before the abduction. However, the kidnappers managed to escape with a few personal belongings, including two mobile phones and the vehicle’s key.
Commendation from the Army Leadership
The impressive rescue did not go unnoticed by the military hierarchy. Brigadier General Kingsley Chidiebere Uwa, the Commander of the 6 Brigade Nigerian Army, praised the troops for their courage and professionalism. He commended their ability to respond swiftly and effectively under pressure, highlighting their role in strengthening the nation’s fight against criminality and terrorism.“The Commander 6 Brigade Nigerian Army Brigadier General Kingsley Chidiebere Uwa, commended the troops for their swift and decisive action.”
The general went further to urge the general public to play a more active role in supporting the efforts of the Nigerian military. He appealed to citizens to always provide credible and timely information that could help security forces combat crime and maintain peace in their communities.
“He urged the general public to continue to support the military with credible information to aid in the ongoing fight against criminality.”
The Bigger Picture: Operation Whirl Stroke and the Fight Against Insecurity
The success of this operation in Chanchangi is part of a broader military initiative called Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS). This special operation was launched to address growing insecurity in the North-Central region of Nigeria, which includes states like Benue, Nasarawa, and Taraba. The operation brings together different military and paramilitary forces in a coordinated effort to eliminate banditry, kidnapping, and other forms of violent crime.
Over the past year, OPWS has made several notable achievements, including the neutralization of armed groups, rescue of kidnapped individuals, and destruction of bandit camps. The operation has also helped to stabilize regions previously plagued by conflict and terror.
The Army’s Ongoing Commitment to Protecting Nigeria
The Nigerian Army continues to reaffirm its dedication to the protection of lives and property across all regions of the country, especially in communities that have become vulnerable to attacks by criminals and armed gangs. The military's presence in Taraba State, and in particular Takum LGA, remains critical in maintaining law and order.
“The Nigerian Army remains committed to ensuring the safety and security of all citizens and will not relent in its efforts to rid Taraba State and its environs of criminal elements,” the statement concluded.
This reassurance from the army is a much-needed comfort to residents who have faced the terror of insecurity for years. It is a signal that the government is not turning a blind eye to the challenges in the region — and that the fight against crime is very much alive.
Conclusion: A Victory for Taraba, But the Fight Continues
The foiled kidnap attempt in Taraba State is more than just a headline — it is a victory for every Nigerian who longs for peace and security. It shows that with the right resources, intelligence, and swift action, criminal elements can be defeated, and lives can be saved.
The heroic actions of the 6 Brigade Nigerian Army and the OPWS team are worthy of national recognition. Their discipline, quick response, and successful rescue mission have undoubtedly prevented what could have been another tragic story in Nigeria’s ongoing battle against insecurity.
As citizens, it is important that we also play our part — by remaining vigilant, reporting suspicious activities, and cooperating with security forces. Together, we can build a safer, more secure Nigeria where every person, regardless of their background or location, can live without fear.
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