Summary: Joint Task Force Operation WHIRL STROKE successfully rescues two Unity Bank staff members who were abducted in Taraba State, forcing kidnappers to flee during intelligence-led operation.
In a commendable display of swift military response, troops of the Joint Task Force Operation WHIRL STROKE (OPWS) have successfully rescued two bank workers who were kidnapped in Taraba State, bringing relief to their families and the banking community.
The dramatic rescue operation, which took place in Gborgbor Village, Wukari Local Government Area of Taraba State, saw the safe recovery of Mr Marwan Abubakar, 40, and Mr Leng’en Cakop, 37—both staff members of Unity Bank from Zaki-Biam in Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State.
How the Rescue Mission Unfolded
According to Lieutenant Ahmad Zubairu, the Acting Media Information Officer of HQ JTF Operation WHIRL STROKE, the rescue mission was launched in the early hours of March 6, 2026, following credible intelligence reports about the location of the victims and their captors.
“The operation was intelligence-led from start to finish,” the statement revealed. “Our troops conducted an aggressive search and rescue mission aimed at locating the terrorists and safely recovering the victims.”
The military operation initially faced challenges when troops thoroughly searched suspected houses and locations within Gborgbor Village but found nothing unusual. However, the determined security operatives did not give up.
Persistence Pays Off
When additional intelligence indicated that the kidnappers and their victims were still trapped within the general area, the Sub-Sector Commander personally led reinforcement troops to intensify the search operation.
The search was extended to surrounding settlements, including Tse Anaka, where the sustained pressure from advancing troops forced the criminals to abandon their captives and flee for their lives.
While no direct contact was made with the fleeing kidnappers during the operation, troops recovered a motorcycle suspected to have been used by the criminals along the route leading to Tse Anaka Village—a crucial piece of evidence that may aid further investigations.
Military Leadership Commends Troops
The Force Commander of Joint Task Force Operation WHIRL STROKE, Major General Moses Gara, praised the troops for their professionalism and swift response to the intelligence report.
“The success of this operation demonstrates the effectiveness of intelligence-led operations in combating kidnapping and other criminal activities within our operational area,” Major General Gara stated.
He further reassured residents of Taraba and neighbouring states of the Joint Task Force’s continued commitment to protecting lives and property across the region.
Call for Public Cooperation
The military commander emphasized the critical role of civilian cooperation in the fight against kidnapping and other security challenges plaguing the region.
“We urge members of the public to continue supporting security agencies with timely and credible information that could assist in dismantling criminal networks operating within the region,” he appealed.
This successful rescue operation comes as a morale booster for many Nigerians who have been concerned about the safety of travellers and professionals working in various parts of the North-Central and North-Eastern regions.
The two rescued bankers have since been reunited with their families, though details about their medical condition and the ransom demands (if any) have not been disclosed by security authorities.
As security agencies continue their efforts to track down the fleeing kidnappers, this operation serves as a reminder that with proper intelligence gathering and swift action, Nigeria’s security forces can effectively combat the menace of kidnapping that has plagued several communities.
Find out more on buzzUp9ja
Be the first to comment