Troops of the 6 Brigade Nigerian Army/Sub Sector 3 Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) have apprehended six suspected kidnappers in separate operations within Taraba State. Two of the suspects attempted to bribe the troops with N2 million.
The operations took place on May 19, 2024.
Acting on a tip-off, troops from the 93 Battalion Sub-Sector 3B OPWS, stationed at the Forward Operating Base in Wukari, conducted a raid in Chinkai Village, Wukari Local Government Area.
In a statement, Acting Assistant Director of 6 Brigade Army Public Relations, Lieutenant Oni Olubodunde, reported that the raid resulted in the capture of two individuals, Usman Gide Ali and Abdulrahman Amadu.
The suspects had been wanted by security agencies for their involvement in multiple kidnappings in Wukari and surrounding areas.
“Upon their arrest, the suspects attempted to bribe the troops with N2 million for their release. However, the soldiers staunchly refused the bribe, underscoring their dedication to justice and integrity,” the statement read.
“The suspects were also overheard stating that if money fails to secure their freedom, their associates would resort to armed means to rescue them from custody.”
In a related operation in Ibi Local Government Area, troops stationed at Sarikin Kudu, acting on credible intelligence, apprehended four more suspected kidnappers: Jafaru Banyi, Mohammad Ardo, Amadu Lawal Shatta, and Biyu Ardu.
These suspects have been linked to numerous high-profile abductions in the region, targeting both locals and foreigners for ransom, and have long been under surveillance by security agencies.
The Commander of the 6 Brigade/Sector 3 OPWS, Brigadier General Kingsley Uwa, commended the troops for their courage and unwavering commitment to ethical standards. He emphasized that the successful apprehension of these suspects is a testament to the diligent efforts and dedication of the soldiers, highlighting their refusal to accept bribes as a clear demonstration of their professionalism and integrity.