Joint Task Force Rescues Two Kidnapped Unity Bank Staff in Taraba Operation
Troops of the Joint Task Force Operation WHIRL STROKE (OPWS) have successfully rescued two kidnapped bankers following a precise and intelligence-driven operation in Wukari Local Government Area of Taraba State. The dramatic rescue mission unfolded over several days, showcasing the military's commitment to combating criminal activities in the region.
Intelligence-Led Search and Rescue Mission
Lieutenant Ahmad Zubairu Zubairu, the Acting Media Information Officer for HQ JTF Operation WHIRL STROKE, disclosed this development in an official statement released on Saturday, 7 March 2026. According to the statement, the victims, both dedicated staff members of Unity Bank from Benue State, had been abducted just a few days prior to the operation.
The statement elaborated: "Troops of the Joint Task Force Operation WHIRL STROKE (OPWS) successfully rescued two kidnap victims following an intelligence-led search and rescue operation conducted in Gborgbor Village, Wukari Local Government Area of Taraba State, forcing the kidnappers to abandon their captives and flee."
The operation was initiated in the early hours of 6 March 2026, based on credible intelligence that indicated the presence of terrorists and their victims within the general area. Acting swiftly on this critical information, OPWS troops launched an aggressive search and rescue mission with the primary objective of locating the terrorists and safely recovering the abducted individuals.
Intensified Efforts and Successful Outcome
During the initial phase of the operation, troops meticulously searched suspected houses and locations within Gborgbor Village but found nothing unusual. However, further intelligence obtained confirmed that the kidnappers and their victims were still trapped within the general area.
In response to this new development, additional troops led by the Sub-Sector Commander were promptly deployed to reinforce the search operation and intensify efforts to secure the safe release of the victims. The troops subsequently extended their search to surrounding settlements, including Tse Anaka.
The sustained pressure from the advancing troops ultimately forced the terrorists to abandon their captives and flee the area. The rescued victims were later identified as Mr. Marwan Abubakar, aged 40, and Mr. Leng'en Cakop, aged 37, both esteemed staff members of Unity Bank from Zaki-Biam in Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State.
Recovery and Commendations
No direct contact was made with the fleeing terrorists during the operation. However, troops recovered a motorcycle suspected to have been used by the terrorists along the route leading to Tse Anaka Village, providing valuable evidence for further investigations.
The Force Commander of the Joint Task Force Operation WHIRL STROKE, Major General Moses Gara, commended the troops for their professionalism and swift response to actionable intelligence. He noted that the success of this operation vividly demonstrates the effectiveness of intelligence-led operations in combating kidnapping and other terrorist activities within the Joint Operations Area.
Major General Gara further reassured residents of Taraba and neighboring states of the Joint Task Force's continued commitment to protecting lives and property. He urged members of the public to continue supporting security agencies with timely and credible information that could assist in dismantling criminal networks operating within the region.
