MAKURDI, NIGERIA — Troops of Operation Whirl Stroke have arrested a suspected kidnapper and rescued a victim in coordinated operations across Benue and Nasarawa states, dealing a significant blow to criminal networks terrorizing the North-Central region.
The operation, which took place on Saturday, saw troops acting on actionable intelligence to track down the suspected kidnapper, who had been on the run for weeks. The suspect was apprehended at a hideout in a border community between Benue and Nasarawa states, following a fierce exchange of gunfire. The rescued victim, who had been held captive for several days, was found in a deplorable condition and has since been reunited with family members after receiving medical attention.
The successful operation has been hailed as a major victory in the fight against insecurity in the North-Central region. According to military sources, the suspect is believed to be a key member of a kidnapping syndicate that has been terrorizing communities in the area. Items recovered from the suspect include weapons, ammunition, and mobile phones believed to have been used in coordinating kidnap operations.
In Benue State, troops conducted a clearance operation in the volatile Ukum Local Government Area, a hotspot for criminal activities, leading to the arrest of several suspected kidnappers and the recovery of arms and ammunition. The army, in a statement, confirmed that its troops had dislodged a notorious criminal gang that had been terrorizing the area and recovered weapons, including AK-47 rifles and locally fabricated firearms.
The operation also saw the arrest of a suspect linked to a recent attack in the same area, with troops recovering a cache of arms and ammunition, including rifles and several rounds of ammunition. In Nasarawa State, troops responded to a distress call and rescued a victim who had been abducted by gunmen in a community along the Benue-Nasarawa border.
The military has intensified its operations in the region following a surge in kidnappings and other criminal activities, with the troops receiving accolades from local communities for their efforts in tackling insecurity. The military has urged residents to remain vigilant and to report any suspicious activities to security agencies, while also warning criminal elements to desist from their activities or face the full force of the law.
The success of Operation Whirl Stroke reflects the military’s continued efforts to secure the region and restore peace to affected communities. The military has called on residents to continue to support security forces in their efforts to combat insecurity and to provide timely information that could lead to the arrest of criminals. As troops continue their offensive operations, the message is clear: the military is determined to rid the region of criminal elements and restore peace and stability.
