By Muhammad Mamman
The Nigerian Army has rescued 14 kidnapped travellers during a decisive operation in a forested area of Benue State, officials confirmed on Monday.
According to military sources, troops of Operation Whirl Stroke launched the rescue mission after receiving credible intelligence on the movement and location of the abductors. The victims, who were seized along a major transit route in the state, were traced to a hideout deep within the forest.
The troops reportedly engaged the kidnappers in a brief gun duel before overpowering them, forcing the gang to abandon the captives and flee. All 14 victims were safely evacuated and have since been handed over to relevant authorities for medical evaluation and reunification with their families.
Speaking on the operation, a senior military officer said the successful rescue demonstrates the Army’s renewed commitment to dismantling criminal networks across the region. He added that operations remain ongoing to track down the fleeing suspects.
Communities in Benue and neighbouring states have in recent months raised concerns over rising cases of highway abductions, with security agencies intensifying efforts to restore safety along major travel corridors.
The Army urged the public to remain vigilant and continue providing timely information to support ongoing counter-kidnapping operations.
