Troops foil kidnapping, rescue three victims in Taraba

Troops of the Nigerian Army’s 6 Brigade, under Sector 3 of Operation Whirl Stroke, have again foiled a kidnapping attempt and rescued three victims in Taraba State.

The operation, carried out on January 5, 2026, reportedly followed credible intelligence received by troops deployed in Jeb Jeb town on the activities of suspected kidnappers in Sangai village, Bachama Ward of Karim Lamido Local Government Council.

Acting swiftly on the intelligence, the troops, according to a statement issued on Tuesday to journalists in the state by the Brigade’s acting spokesperson, Lieutenant Umar Muhammad, mobilized and pursued the suspects towards the border area between Taraba and Plateau states.

“On sighting the advancing soldiers, the kidnappers abandoned their captives and fled into the surrounding area,” the army statement read.

The victims, identified as Nimron Umar, 25; Abafaras Ibrahim, 20; and Habila Yunusa, 23, were confirmed to have been successfully rescued without harm.

“They are currently in military custody, where they are receiving necessary care and documentation before being reunited with their families,” the army said.

Commending the troops for their professionalism and swift response, the Commander of 6 Brigade, Brigadier General Kingsley Chidiebere Uwa, reaffirmed the Brigade’s commitment to sustaining offensive operations across the state to deny criminal elements freedom of action and ensure lasting peace and security in Taraba and its environs.

He also called on members of the public to continue supporting security agencies with timely and credible information, noting that such cooperation remains critical to the success of ongoing military operations.