By Reportcircle Correspondent | Taraba
In a dramatic overnight operation that underscored Nigeria’s renewed onslaught against criminal networks, gallant troops of the 6 Brigade, Nigerian Army, in a joint offensive with operatives of the Nigeria Police Force, have successfully rescued six kidnapped victims, including a baby during a coordinated clearance mission in Taraba State.
The rescue, carried out in the early hours of October 2, 2025, was part of the ongoing Operation Lafiya Nakowa, a large-scale military campaign aimed at flushing out terrorists, bandits, and kidnappers across the North East and North Central corridors.
According to Lieutenant Umar Muhammad, the Acting Assistant Director Army Public Relations
6 Brigade Nigerian Army in a press statement, the victims were abducted when armed kidnappers ambushed a Toyota Carina II traveling from Katsina-Ala in Benue State, forcing it to a halt near an abandoned checkpoint before dragging the occupants into the bush at gunpoint.
Acting on swift intelligence, 6 Brigade troops and police units launched a rapid-response search, combing the dense forest terrain in a meticulously coordinated assault that culminated in the safe rescue of all six victims.
The rescued individuals have been identified as Mr. Terna Gbaya (43), Mr. Musa Adamu (55), Mrs. Rose Sor (35), Mrs. Lydia Vyiashima (40), Mrs. Comfort Iyofar (60), and a baby. All have since been reunited with their families.
Commander of 6 Brigade, Brigadier General Kingsley Chidiebere Uwa, hailed the operation as a textbook example of security synergy and rapid tactical response, emphasizing the Army’s unwavering commitment to protecting lives and restoring public confidence across Taraba State.
“Our troops and the Police acted with precision and courage. We will not relent until every criminal camp in Taraba is dismantled and every citizen feels safe again,” General Uwa declared.
The Army confirmed that search and rescue operations remain ongoing to track down the fleeing kidnappers and ensure no other captives remain in the criminals’ custody.
Military sources also appealed to residents to remain vigilant and continue providing credible intelligence to aid the ongoing offensive against banditry and kidnapping in the region.
Operation Lafiya Nakowa continues to record significant breakthroughs as the Nigerian Armed Forces intensify their push to reclaim rural communities from violent criminal groups.
