In a swift and decisive operation, military forces have successfully prevented a mass abduction on a major highway in Benue State, securing the freedom of two dozen travelers.
Dramatic Nighttime Rescue on Busy Highway
The incident unfolded on the evening of December 22, 2025, at approximately 10:00 PM. According to an official statement released on Tuesday, December 23, troops from the Joint Task Force Operation WHIRL STROKE responded to a distress call. The soldiers, who were on a routine patrol, rapidly mobilized to the Amoda axis within the Ohimini Local Government Area of Benue State.
Lieutenant Ahmad Zubairu Zubairu, the Acting Media Information Officer for the operation's headquarters, provided the details. He reported that armed criminals had emerged from nearby bushes and temporarily taken control of an existing checkpoint along the Otukpo–Enugu Expressway.
Buses Stopped, Passengers Targeted
From this position, the assailants intercepted two commercial buses, each with an 18-seater capacity. The vehicles were on a long-distance journey, having originated from Jos in Plateau State and destined for Ibadan in Oyo State. The gunmen attempted to abduct all passengers on board.
Their plans were disrupted by the timely arrival of the Operation WHIRL STROKE troops. A fierce firefight ensued, forcing the kidnappers to abandon their captives and flee back into the dense bush for cover. The immediate confrontation led to the rescue of 15 passengers, who were promptly handed over to the Nigerian Police Division in Otukpo for care and further procedures.
Search Operations and Commander's Commendation
Initially, six adults and four minors were reported missing following the chaotic scene. However, persistent and follow-up operations by the security forces yielded further success. Five more adults and all four children were later found and rescued. These individuals are now safely in the custody of the Police Area Command in Otukpo. Search efforts continue to locate the one remaining missing passenger.
The Force Commander of the Joint Task Force Operation WHIRL STROKE, Major General Moses Gara, praised his troops for their prompt response and high level of professionalism. He reaffirmed the Task Force's unwavering dedication to protecting the lives and property of citizens within its Area of Responsibility.
Major General Gara emphasized that a combination of sustained offensive operations, intelligence-led patrols, and coordinated efforts with sister security agencies would continue to restrict the freedom of action available to criminal elements in the region.
In a seasonal message, the Force Commander extended warm Christmas and Yuletide greetings to all Christian faithful within the Joint Operations Area, which covers Benue, Nasarawa, and Taraba States. He expressed hope that the season would bring God's mercy, peace, and enduring joy to families and communities.
Major General Gara also urged believers to remain united, reject violence, and embrace the noble virtues exemplified by Jesus Christ—love, humility, tolerance, and compassion—as essential foundations for shared prosperity during the festive period and beyond.
