Troops of the Joint Task Force Operation WHIRL STROKE have foiled a kidnapping attempt along the Otukpo–Enugu Expressway in Benue State, rescuing several passengers and forcing the assailants to flee.
The incident occurred at about 10:00 p.m. on December 22, 2025, following a distress call that prompted troops on routine patrol to swiftly mobilise to the Amoda axis of Ohimini Local Government Area. The armed criminals reportedly emerged from nearby bushes and briefly occupied an existing checkpoint before stopping two 18-seater commercial buses travelling from Plateau State to Oyo State, with the intention of abducting all passengers on board.
However, the timely intervention of troops of Operation WHIRL STROKE led to a brief firefight, forcing the kidnappers to abandon their victims and flee into the bush.
In the initial encounter, 15 passengers were rescued and handed over to the Nigerian Police Division in Otukpo. Although six adults and four minors were initially declared missing, subsequent search and rescue operations led to the recovery of an additional five adults and all four minors. The rescued persons are currently in the custody of the Police Area Command in Otukpo, while efforts continue to locate the remaining missing passenger.
Commenting on the development, the Force Commander of Joint Task Force Operation WHIRL STROKE, Moses Gara, commended the troops for their prompt response and professionalism. He reaffirmed the Task Force’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding lives and property within its area of responsibility, stressing that sustained offensive operations, intelligence-led patrols, and close coordination with sister security agencies would continue to deny criminal elements freedom of action.
Major General Gara also extended warm Christmas and Yuletide greetings to Christian faithful across the Joint Operations Area, which covers Benue State, Nasarawa State, and Taraba State. He prayed that the festive season would bring God’s abundant mercy, peace, and enduring joy to families and communities.
He urged residents to remain united, shun all forms of violence, and uphold the virtues of love, humility, tolerance, and compassion, noting that these values are essential for shared prosperity during the festive period and beyond.
