By Deborah Nnamdi
Troops of the 6 Brigade, Nigerian Army, operating under Operation Lafiya Nakowa, have successfully rescued a kidnapped victim, Alhaji Ali Adamu, during a swift operation in Lau Local Government Area of Taraba State.
In a statement issued by the Army Public Relations Officer, Lieutenant Umar Muhammad, the rescue took place on October 29, 2025, following a distress call reporting the abduction of Alhaji Adamu, who was kidnapped while sleeping outside his residence.
“Acting promptly on the information, troops deployed in Lau launched a hot pursuit of the kidnappers. Sensing the troops’ advance, the abductors abandoned their victim and fled into nearby bushes,” the statement read.
According to the Army, the rescued victim was safely reunited with his family, and no ransom was paid.
In a related development, local vigilantes and hunters on patrol around Maraban Kunini in the early hours of the same day apprehended a 30-year-old suspect, identified as Mr. Lalau Adamu, allegedly linked to the abduction.
The Army said the suspect sustained injuries after a mob attack before troops arrived at the scene. He was later evacuated under military protection to a medical facility for treatment as investigations continue.
The Commander of the 6 Brigade and Sector 3, Operation Whirl Stroke, Brigadier General Kingsley Chidiebere Uwa, commended the swift coordination between troops, vigilantes, and local hunters, describing their collaboration as crucial to the operation’s success.
General Uwa urged residents to continue providing timely and credible intelligence to security agencies to strengthen ongoing efforts in maintaining peace and security across Taraba State. He also reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property, pledging sustained operations to rid the state of criminal elements.
Meanwhile, in a related counter-banditry effort, troops of the Nigerian Army’s 2 Division and Sector 3, Operation Fasan Yamma, recently rescued 21 kidnapped victims across Kwara and Kogi States.
According to Lieutenant Colonel Polycarp Okoye, Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, 2 Division, the operation, conducted on October 17, 2025, involved coordinated offensives by troops of the 12 Brigade, Lokoja, and 22 Armoured Brigade, Ilorin.
The rescued victims included 14 males, four females, an infant, and four Chinese nationals, some of whom had been held captive for over four months.
The General Officer Commanding 2 Division, Major General C. R. Nnebeife, said the victims received first aid and relief materials to aid their recovery from the trauma of their ordeal.
