Troops Rescue Two Kidnap Victims in Benue After Sustained Operation
Troops of Operation WHIRL STROKE have successfully rescued two kidnapped victims in Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State following sustained, intelligence-led operations against criminal elements.
The rescue, which occurred in the early hours of April 15, 2026, at about 3:50 a.m. in Kyado, led to the safe recovery of Mr. Sylvester Micheal Ebuka and Mrs. Chidinma Chikwentu, who had been abducted in separate incidents earlier in the month.
Mr. Ebuka was reportedly kidnapped on April 2 at about 6:50 a.m., while Mrs. Chikwentu was taken on April 6 at approximately 5:13 p.m.
Military sources said the breakthrough was achieved through credible intelligence and sustained operational pressure on suspected bandit hideouts in the area. Troops carried out aggressive fighting patrols aimed at dislodging the criminals and disrupting their activities, forcing the abductors to flee and abandon the victims.
Both victims were rescued unharmed.
The Force Commander, Joint Task Force Operation WHIRL STROKE, Moses Gara, commended the troops for their professionalism, resilience, and commitment, noting that the operation highlights the effectiveness of intelligence-driven military actions.
He reassured residents of Benue State and surrounding areas of the military’s determination to sustain ongoing operations until all security threats are neutralised.
The commander also urged members of the public to continue supporting security agencies with timely and credible information, stressing that community cooperation remains critical in combating kidnapping and other criminal activities.
By TimesNG