Troops of the 6 Brigade Nigerian Army and Sector 3 of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) have successfully rescued seven kidnap victims in Taraba State following a coordinated search and rescue operation.
The victims were abducted by suspected kidnappers along the Chinkai–Kente–Wukari road on Saturday, August 3, 2025. In a statement released on Wednesday, August 6, Lieutenant Umar Muhammad, Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, confirmed the development.
According to the statement, the operation was carried out over two days — Tuesday, August 5, and Wednesday, August 6. The troops reportedly stormed criminal hideouts, engaging the kidnappers who eventually fled, abandoning their captives.
Four victims were safely rescued in Chinkai Forest on August 5, while the remaining three — all female — were found on August 6 in the Owedi Community, Wukari Local Government Area.
“The safe recovery of all seven victims highlights the Nigerian Army’s commitment and professionalism in combating kidnapping and ensuring the security of Taraba State residents,” the army said.
Commander 6 Brigade / Sector 3 OPWS, Brigadier General Kingsley Chidiebere Uwa, commended the troops for their bravery and described the mission as a major success in the ongoing fight against criminality in the region.
He reaffirmed the Brigade’s determination to sustain aggressive operations aimed at curbing kidnapping and securing lives and property across the state.
