Troops rescue seven kidnap victims from criminal hideout in Benue

Seven victims abducted by suspected kidnappers have been rescued by troops of Operation Whirl Stroke, OPWS, in Benue State.

The operation was carried out on Monday by the troops in partnership with personnel of the Nigeria Police Force and local vigilantes in parts of Otukpo and Ohimini Local Government Areas of the state.

The victims were rescued around Amla-Icho and Ogobia communities in Otukpo LGA, as well as Anpekchi in Ohimini LGA.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, Acting Media Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force of OPWS, Lieutenant Ahmad Zubairu, said the operation was launched after security agencies received credible intelligence concerning suspected kidnappers operating in the affected communities.

According to him, troops, alongside police officers and local vigilantes, advanced into the identified locations to locate the abducted persons and apprehend members of the criminal group.

He said the suspects fled into the surrounding terrain after noticing the arrival of the security personnel, leaving the victims behind.

Zubairu added that the seven victims were safely recovered and taken away from the danger zone.

Security personnel also recovered a vehicle allegedly used in connection with the criminal activities.

The statement said the vehicle was later handed over to the police for further investigation and appropriate action.

The OPWS commended the troops for their prompt response and also acknowledged the contributions of the police and local vigilantes to the successful operation.

The task force urged residents to continue providing security agencies with credible and timely information, stressing that maintaining peace and protecting communities requires the cooperation of all stakeholders.