Army’s Warrant Officer, nine others rescued as troops foil kidnapping plot in Benue

By Ayorinde Oluokun/Abuja

A Warrant Officer with 6 Brigade Band identified John Richard was among the 10 victims rescued from kidnappers along Zaki-Biam–Wukari road, Benue State by troops on Monday, the Nigerian Army has said.

However, two persons were still missing in the rescue operation carried out by troops of Joint Task Force codenamed Operation Whirl Stroke.

This was disclosed in a statement by the Joint Task Force Commander, Maj. Gen. Moses Gara on Thursday.

According to the statement statement signed by the Acting Media Information Officer, HQ JTF Operation OPWS, Lt. Ahmad Zubairu, in Makurdi, troops embarked on the rescue operation after receiving ‘credible intelligence’ about kidnapping activities around a location known as Quarantine Checkpoint.

Gara said, “On 3 November 2025, troops deployed at Kyado, while on mobile patrol along Road Zaki-Biam–Wukari, received credible intelligence about ongoing kidnapping activities at a location identified as Quarantine Checkpoint.

“The kidnappers were reported to be disguised in police uniforms, attempting to deceive unsuspecting road users.

“Upon receiving the information, the troops mobilised swiftly to the scene. On sighting the approaching soldiers, the kidnappers fled in disarray into nearby bushes.”

The OPWS Commander further said that the troops immediately chased after the fleeing suspects, following their tracks deep into the forest.

“During the search operations, 10 kidnapped victims were successfully rescued”, he said.

He added that among those rescued was Warrant Officer John Richard, a personnel of 6 Brigade Band, Jalingo while two other victims are still unaccounted for as search operations by the troops continue.

The Commander added that the rescued victims are in safe custody and being debriefed before being handed over to the appropriate authorities for further action.

Gara commended the troops for their gallantry, swift response, and commitment to protecting innocent citizens.

The OPWS Command lauded the tactical commander for his exemplary leadership and proactive measures in combating criminal activities within the general area.

He also assured the troops that their sacrifices and dedication would never go unrewarded, while urging them to sustain the intensity and maintain high morale, and continue to uphold the rules of engagement, including discipline and professionalism in all operations.