Troops of Joint Task Force Operation WHIRL STROKE, OPWS, have rescued seven kidnap victims from a suspected kidnappers’ enclave in Ohimini Local Government Area of Benue State.
The victims were freed during a coordinated intelligence-led operation conducted on Sunday, September 14, 2026, around Amla-Icho, Ogobia and Anpekchi communities.
The operation was carried out in collaboration with the Nigerian Police Force and local vigilantes following credible intelligence on the activities of suspected kidnappers terrorizing the area.
Acting Media Information Officer, HQ JTF Operation WHIRL STROKE, Lieutenant Ahmad Zubairu Zubairu, who disclosed this in a statement on Monday, said the criminals fled on sighting the approaching troops.
“On sighting troops approach, the suspected kidnappers fled into the surrounding terrain, abandoning their victims in the process,” Lt. Zubairu said.
He said troops immediately secured the area and brought the seven victims out of harm’s way. A vehicle linked to the criminal operation was also recovered and handed over to the Police for further action.
“The troops immediately secured the area and successfully rescued seven kidnapped victims, bringing them out of harm’s way,” the OPWS spokesman stated.
Lieutenant Zubairu commended the troops for their proactiveness, courage and swift response, which resulted in the safe recovery of the victims.
He also lauded the Police and local vigilantes for their cooperation and valuable support throughout the operation.
The OPWS Spokesman further urged members of the public to continue to provide credible and timely information to security agencies, noting that security is a collective responsibility.(Legend News)
