Troops of the Nigerian Army operating under the 6 Brigade, a major formation of the Nigerian Army headquartered in Jalingo, Taraba State in northeastern Nigeria, have successfully foiled a kidnapping operation and rescued three victims during a security operation in the state.
The military action was carried out by soldiers attached to Sector 3 of Operation Whirl Stroke, a multi-agency security operation established by the Federal Government of Nigeria to combat kidnapping, banditry, and violent crimes across parts of North Central and Northeast Nigeria. According to the Nigerian Army, the operation took place on Monday, 5 January 2026, following credible intelligence reports.
In an official statement released on Tuesday, 6 January 2026, and signed by Umar Muhammad, the Army Public Relations Officer of the 6 Brigade Nigerian Army, the military disclosed that troops deployed at Jeb Jeb town received actionable intelligence regarding the movement and activities of suspected kidnappers operating around Sangai Village, located in Bachama Ward of Karim Lamido Local Government Area of Taraba State.
Okay News reports that acting swiftly on the intelligence, the troops were immediately mobilised and advanced toward the suspected hideout of the kidnappers, pursuing them toward the boundary between Taraba State and Plateau State, another region in central Nigeria that has faced recurring security challenges.
“Acting promptly on the intelligence, troops were immediately mobilised and pursued the suspects towards the border area between Taraba and Plateau States.
“On sighting the advancing troops, the kidnappers abandoned their captives and fled into the surrounding area,” the statement read.
The Nigerian Army confirmed that three victims were rescued unharmed during the operation. The rescued individuals were identified as Nimron Umar Ab, aged 25; Safaras Ibrahim, aged 20; and Habila Yunusa, aged 23.
According to the statement, the rescued victims were taken into military custody immediately after the operation, where they are currently receiving necessary care and undergoing documentation procedures in line with military and humanitarian protocols.
“The rescued victims are currently in military custody, where they are receiving necessary care and documentation, after which they will be reunited with their respective families,” the statement added.
Commending the professionalism and commitment of the troops involved, the Commander of the 6 Brigade Nigerian Army, Brigadier General Kingsley Chidiebere Uwa, reaffirmed the military’s resolve to sustain offensive and intelligence-led operations across Taraba State.
“He further urged members of the public to continue to support security agencies with timely and credible information, noting that such cooperation remains vital to the success of ongoing military operations,” the statement read.
The Nigerian Army reiterated that collaboration between civilians and security agencies remains critical in tackling insecurity across Nigeria.
