Operatives of the Taraba State Police Command, in a joint operation with the Nigerian military, have rescued five kidnapped victims following an abduction along the Wukari–Zaki Biam road.

The victims were abducted late Wednesday night, October 2, near Kasuwan Shanu, when gunmen ambushed a red Toyota Carina II with registration number BSA 766AE.

The vehicle, driven by Terna Gbaya from Zaki-Biam, was carrying seven passengers when it was intercepted and all occupants were taken into the bush.

In a statement issued on Friday, the Command’s Public Relations Officer, ASP James Lashén Saminu, said the police received a distress call around 10:35 am on Thursday, alerting them to the attack which occurred at about 10:10 pm the previous night.

“On receiving the report, the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Wukari Division, in collaboration with the military, immediately mobilized a team to the area. Their swift response and pursuit of the kidnappers resulted in the rescue of five victims,” he said.

The rescued individuals have been identified as Musa Adamu, Rose Sor, Lydia Vyiashima, Comfort Iyofar, and the driver, Terna Gbaya.

Efforts are ongoing to secure the release of the remaining two victims, while a manhunt has been launched to track down the kidnappers.

Commissioner of Police, Betty Enekpen Isokpan Otimenyin, commended the joint team for their coordinated response and assured the public of the Command’s resolve to protect lives and property.

“We remain determined to bring the culprits to justice and ensure the safety of all residents in Taraba,” Otimenyin stated.

The Command also urged residents to remain vigilant and promptly report any suspicious movements to security agencies.