Nigerian Troops Successfully Rescue Two Kidnapped Victims in Benue State Operation
In a significant security breakthrough, troops from Operation WHIRL STROKE have successfully rescued two kidnapped victims following sustained intelligence-driven operations against criminal elements operating within Kyado in Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State.
Details of the Rescue Operation
The rescue operation, which occurred in the early hours of April 15, 2026, at approximately 03:50 a.m., resulted in the safe recovery of Mr. Sylvester Micheal Ebuka and Mrs. Chidinma Chikwentu. Both victims had been abducted in separate incidents earlier in the month, with Mr. Ebuka kidnapped on April 2, 2026, at about 06:50 a.m., while Mrs. Chikwentu was taken on April 6, 2026, at approximately 05:13 p.m.
Intelligence-Led Military Action
Acting Media Information Officer for Headquarters Joint Task Force Operation WHIRL STROKE, Lieutenant Ahmad Zubairu Zubairu, disclosed this development in an official statement on Wednesday, April 15. According to the statement, the successful rescue was achieved through a combination of credible intelligence and relentless operational pressure mounted by troops on suspected bandit hideouts within the general area.
The troops conducted aggressive fighting patrols aimed at dislodging criminal elements and disrupting their activities, the statement explained. This sustained offensive led to the recovery of the victims as their abductors fled. Both individuals were freed without sustaining physical injuries.
Military Leadership Commends Troops
Force Commander of the Joint Task Force Operation WHIRL STROKE, Major General Moses Gara, commended the troops for their resilience, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to duty. He noted that the successful rescue operation serves as a testament to the effectiveness of intelligence-led operations and the determination of the troops to deny criminal elements freedom of action within the region.
Major General Gara further reassured residents of Benue State and its surrounding areas of the military's firm resolve to sustain ongoing operations until all threats to peace and security are completely neutralized. He emphasized the critical importance of community cooperation in combating criminal activities.
Call for Continued Public Cooperation
The military leadership urged members of the public to continue providing timely and credible information to security agencies, stressing that community cooperation remains absolutely vital in the ongoing fight against kidnapping and other forms of criminality plaguing the region. This successful operation demonstrates how coordinated efforts between security forces and local communities can yield positive results in addressing security challenges.
