Lucky Obukohwo, Reporting
Troops of 6 Brigade Nigerian Army/Sector 3 Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) have aborted a kidnap attempt in Chanchangi village, Takum Local Government Area, Taraba State, and rescued three victims.
This was contained in a statement made available to Journalists by the Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, 6 Brigade Nigerian Army, Captain Olubodunde Oni.
The incident occurred during a routine patrol and picketing operation along the Takum–Chanchangi Road.
Oni said that on approaching the Uko community axis, vigilant troops encountered suspected armed bandits who had kidnapped three individuals travelling in a vehicle.
He added that upon sighting the troops, the kidnappers abandoned their captives and fled into the surrounding forest.
The Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, said the troops pursued the criminals, engaging them in a brief exchange of fire, which forced the bandits to retreat further into the bush.
According to him “all three kidnapped victims, including Alhaji Ali, the Sariki Pawa of Takum, were rescued unharmed. The vehicle belonging to one of the victims was also recovered.
Commander of the 6th Brigade of the Nigerian Army, Brigadier General Kingsley Chidiebere Uwa, commended the troops for their swift and decisive action.
He urged the public to provide credible information to support the military’s ongoing fight against criminality.
“The Nigerian Army remains committed to ensuring the safety and security of all citizens and will continue efforts to eliminate criminal elements in Taraba State and its environs”, Oni said .