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Troops of Operation Whirl Stroke have successfully thwarted a kidnapping attempt along the Enugu-Otukpo Road in Benue State, rescuing three passengers unharmed.
The incident occurred on the night of February 25, 2026, involving an 18-seater Benue Links bus (registration TYK 221 YK) carrying four passengers and a minor. Soldiers attached to Sector 1, stationed at the Forward Operating Base (FOB) Otukpo, acted swiftly on credible intelligence during a routine night patrol that suspected kidnappers had hijacked the vehicle.
According to Lt. Ahmad Zubairu Zubairu, Acting Media Information Officer, the troops promptly trailed the fleeing suspects along their escape route. The kidnappers, facing pursuit, abandoned three of their victims and escaped. While no direct confrontation occurred, a mobile phone believed to belong to one of the kidnappers was recovered at the scene.
The Force Commander commended the troops for their vigilance, rapid response, and operational efficiency, noting that their timely intervention prevented what could have escalated into a major security breach with potentially more severe consequences.
He further advised motorists and road users to remain highly vigilant, particularly along stretches of road with unusual absence of vehicular movement, and to report any suspicious activities immediately to the nearest security outpost or formation.
The rescue operation underscores the continued proactive posture of security forces in Benue amid persistent threats of kidnapping and armed robbery along major inter-state highways. No injuries were reported among the rescued passengers, who were safely handed over to authorities. Investigations into the incident remain ongoing.
