Troops storm kidnap hideout in Taraba, free 6 including baby

Troops of the 6 Brigade Nigerian Army/Sector 3, Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS), in a joint operation with the Nigeria Police, have rescued six kidnapped victims, including a baby, during a daring early morning mission in Taraba State.

The rescue, carried out under the ongoing Operation Lafiya Nakowa, took place on October 2, 2025, following the abduction of passengers traveling from Katsina-Ala in Benue State.

According to military sources, suspected kidnappers had intercepted a Toyota Carina II vehicle and forced it to a halt near an abandoned checkpoint before whisking the passengers into the bush.

Acting on a swift intelligence tip-off, troops and police personnel immediately launched a search-and-rescue operation, combing the surrounding area. Their coordinated effort led to the safe recovery of all six victims — the driver and five passengers.

Those rescued include:
Mr. Terna Gbaya (43), Mr. Musa Adamu (55), Mrs. Rose Sor (35), Mrs. Lydia Vyiashima (40), Mrs. Comfort Iyofar (60), and a baby.

The victims have since been reunited with their families, while efforts are ongoing to track down the kidnappers and free any other possible captives.

Commander of the 6 Brigade, Brigadier General Kingsley Chidiebere Uwa, praised the professionalism and quick response of the troops and police officers involved in the operation.

“Their synergy and timely intervention ensured the safe rescue of the victims without casualties,” he said.

General Uwa reaffirmed the Brigade’s commitment to maintaining security and public safety across Taraba State, urging residents to continue sharing credible information with security agencies to aid ongoing operations.

“The public’s cooperation remains crucial to our success,” he added.

The latest rescue marks another significant win for Operation Lafiya Nakowa, which has intensified clearance missions to root out criminal elements and restore peace in Taraba and its surrounding areas.