
Nigerian Army Foils Kidnap Attempt in Taraba, Rescues Traditional Leader and Others Unharmed
Chanchangi, Taraba State – In a swift and coordinated response, troops of the 6 Brigade Nigerian Army/Sector 3 Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) successfully foiled a kidnap attempt in Chanchangi village, located in the Takum Local Government Area of Taraba State.
The incident occurred during a routine patrol along the Takum–Chanchangi Road, when troops encountered suspected armed bandits who had kidnapped three travelers, including Alhaji Ali, the Sariki Pawa of Takum.
Upon spotting the soldiers, the kidnappers abandoned their captives and fled into the nearby forest. The troops pursued the criminals and engaged them in a brief gunfight, forcing them to retreat deeper into the bush.
The Army confirmed that all three victims were rescued unharmed, and one of the victims’ vehicles was recovered from the scene.
Military Commendation and Community Call-to-Action
Brigadier General Kingsley Chidiebere Uwa, Commander of the 6 Brigade, commended his men for their swift and decisive response, which he said prevented what could have been a tragic event. He encouraged the public to continue providing actionable intelligence to support the ongoing fight against criminal activity in the region.
“The Nigerian Army remains committed to ensuring the safety and security of all citizens. Operations will continue to eliminate criminal elements from Taraba and surrounding areas,” said Brigadier General Uwa.
The incident highlights the increasing vigilance of security forces in Nigeria’s North-East region, where kidnapping and banditry have posed serious threats to civilian life and movement.