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The troops of the Nigerian Army successfully prevented a kidnapping attempt along the Otukpo–Enugu Expressway in Benue State, rescuing 24 passengers, which included 20 adults and four minors.
The rescue operation was initiated following an attempted abduction of passengers traveling in two commercial buses by suspected armed bandits.
This incident took place on December 22, 2025, at approximately 10:00 PM in the Amoda area of Ohimini Local Government Area.
Lieutenant Ahmad Zubairu, the Acting Media Information Officer, stated in a release on Saturday that the troops rapidly responded to a distress call and were mobilized to the scene.
According to the statement, the attackers emerged from the bushes, took control of an existing checkpoint, and intercepted two 18-seater buses that were traveling from Jos, Plateau State, to Ibadan, Oyo State, intending to abduct all passengers onboard.
However, the swift intervention by troops under Operation WHIRL STROKE led to a gunfight, compelling the kidnappers to abandon the passengers and escape into the surrounding bush.
Zubairu clarified that during the initial confrontation, 15 passengers were freed and handed over to the Nigerian Police Division in Otukpo, while six adults and four minors were initially unaccounted for.
He added that follow-up operations resulted in the rescue of five additional adults and all four minors, who have since been transferred to the custody of the Police Area Command in Otukpo.
Search operations are still ongoing to locate the remaining missing passenger.
In response to the situation, the Force Commander of the Joint Task Force, Operation WHIRL STROKE, Major General Moses Gara, commended the troops for their prompt action and professionalism.
He reaffirmed the Task Force’s strong commitment to safeguarding lives and property within its Area of Responsibility, emphasizing that continued offensive operations, intelligence-driven patrols, and close collaboration with other security agencies will persist in curbing criminal activities.
Major General Moses Gara extends warm Christmas and Yuletide greetings to all Christian faithful within the Joint Operations Area, which includes Benue, Nasarawa, and Taraba States.
He hopes that this season brings God’s abundant mercy, peace, and lasting joy to families and communities.
The Force Commander encourages all believers to remain united, to reject all forms of violence, and to embody the noble virtues exemplified by the Lord Jesus Christ—love, humility, tolerance, and compassion—as essential for shared prosperity during the festive period and beyond,” Zubair added.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened during the kidnapping attempt?
Armed bandits attempted to abduct passengers traveling in two commercial buses along the Otukpo–Enugu Expressway. The Nigerian Army intervened and rescued 24 individuals, including adults and minors.
How many passengers were rescued?
A total of 24 passengers were rescued, consisting of 20 adults and four minors.
What actions were taken by the Nigerian Army?
The Nigerian Army troops quickly responded to a distress call, engaged in a gun battle with the kidnappers, and successfully rescued the passengers.
Eze Chidiebere Paul
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