Troops of the 6 Brigade Nigerian Army and Sector 3 Operation WHIRL STROKE (OPWS), in collaboration with other security agencies, have arrested three suspected kidnappers in Taraba State.

Apart from the arrest, two kidnapped victims were also confirmed to have been rescued during the raid of the suspects’ hideouts at Adamu Katibu mountain in Lau Local Government Council.

The arrested suspects are identified as Haruna Buba (20), Hassan Kakale, and Hussaini Kakale (both 28),
“The kidnappers, members of a notorious gang in the region, were captured after a gunfight that forced the gang to flee, abandoning their hostages,” the Army said.

The rescued victims who were also identified as Hauwa’u Alh Umaru and Asma’u Alh Umaru, were abducted on 7 July 2024. They have been taken to the headquarters of the 6 Brigade for psychological and medical support and reconciled with their families.

The brigade commander, Brigadier General Kingsley Uwa, reaffirmed the Brigade’s commitment to the safety and security of Taraba State residents.

In another development, troops were alerted to a shooting incident in Chinkai, in Wukari local government council where they discovered the lifeless body of one of a terrorist that operates around Southern Taraba and Awe local government of neighbouring Nassarrawa State.

The suspect identified as Alhaji Gana and his brother, were reportedly killed during the shootout by a rival terrorist group.

The Army said the development “highlights our determination to fight terrorism and all forms of criminal activities towards maintaining peace in Taraba State and beyond. We will continue to work relentlessly with other security agencies and stakeholders to protect our citizens and bring criminals to justice.”

The Army said the arrested suspects are being interrogated and will be handed over to the appropriate authorities for further investigation and prosecution.