Soldiers save two victims from kidnappers

Troops of Operation Whirl Stroke rescued two kidnap victims after confronting suspected kidnappers on the Naka, Ahume Road in Benue State, according to the military.

The troops met the armed suspects during a patrol on Saturday, 24 October, while the kidnappers were reportedly trying to abduct motorists and other road users.

Ahmad Zubairu, the acting media information officer of the task force, issued a statement on Sunday. He said the troops engaged the suspects in a gunfight, forcing them to leave their captives and run away.

The troops chased after the fleeing suspects but did not catch up with them.

One of the rescued victims, Mngunengen Ihom, 36, from Ahume, suffered machete wounds during the attack. He was taken to Naka General Hospital for treatment. The military did not reveal the name of the second victim.

Moses Gara, the Force Commander of Operation Whirl Stroke, asked the troops to keep up intelligence-led operations and improve how they gather information to stop attacks. He also called on residents to share credible and timely information with security agencies.

This rescue comes at a time when security issues are rising in Benue. There have been many attacks and kidnappings along roads and in rural areas.

On 13 October, gunmen kidnapped Catholic priest John Inalegwu Otache and others on the Ugbokolo, Ajegbe-Awume Road in Benue. In a statement on 19 October, the police said they had rescued eight victims and arrested two suspects. They did not confirm if the priest was among those saved.

The latest incident raises ongoing worries about the safety of travelers on roads in the state. Armed groups have been targeting motorists and other residents.