Troops of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS), in collaboration with the Nigerian Police Force and vigilantes have rescued seven kidnapped victims in the Ohimini Local Government Area of Benue State.

Acting Media Information Officer OPWS, Lt. Ahmad Zubairu, made the disclosure in a statement on Wednesday in Makurdi.

Mr Zabairu said the operation was conducted as an intelligence-led search and rescue mission.

According to him, the victims were rescued on September 14, following credible intelligence on the activities of suspected kidnappers operating around the Amla-Icho, Ogobia and Anpekchi communities in the area.

Mr Zubairu said the troops, working with the police and vigilantes, swiftly mobilised to the identified areas following the intelligence.

He said the suspected kidnappers fled into the surrounding terrain on sighting the advancing troops, abandoning their victims.

“However, troops immediately secured the area and successfully rescued seven kidnapped victims, bringing them out of harm’s way,” he said.

Mr Zubaru noted that a vehicle linked to the criminal operation was also recovered during the operation.

The information added that the recovered vehicle was subsequently handed over to the Nigeria Police Force for further necessary action.

The OPWS spokesman commended the troops for their proactiveness, courage and swift response, which resulted in the safe recovery of the victims.

He appreciated the police and local vigilantes for their cooperation and support during the operation.

Mr Zubairuurged members of the public to continue providing credible and timely information to security agencies.

He said such cooperation was necessary to enhance the safety and security of communities, stressing that security remained a collective responsibility. 

(NAN)