Troops from the Nigerian Army’s Sector 3 Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) have successfully captured 12 suspected kidnappers and seized 14 motorcycles, a locally fabricated pistol, and two bags of Indian hemp during recent operations in Taraba State. According to an Army statement, the operation was in response to a distress call from Chachanji village, where two individuals were reportedly abducted by about 10 armed men on motorcycles on November 7, 2024.
The Army’s statement highlighted the resilience of the troops, whose swift action and superior firepower forced the kidnappers to abandon their weapons and supplies and retreat into the bush. Following up on credible intelligence, the troops conducted an additional operation on November 9, arresting 12 suspects and confiscating motorcycles at a local drinking joint in Mbhakyir village.
During interrogation, the suspects admitted involvement in the kidnapping operation and identified their leader as Veior John Gata, a wanted terrorist known for orchestrating criminal activities across Southern Taraba and Benue states. The suspects revealed that Gata had been inciting fear among locals in Chachanji, targeting the market to disrupt local commerce and instill terror.
The 6 Brigade of the Nigerian Army praised local residents for their cooperation and urged the public to continue providing timely information to support security operations. “We advise members of the public to stay vigilant and report suspicious activities to security agencies,” the statement concluded.
