Troops of the Nigerian Army have foiled a kidnapping and robbery attempt along the Wukari–Ikyior road in Wukari Local Government Area of Taraba State, rescuing two victims who were attacked by suspected criminals.
The operation was carried out by soldiers of the 6 Brigade of the Nigerian Army under Sector 3 of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS). According to the army, the incident occurred on January 16, 2026, after troops received a distress call that gunmen had blocked the road and were attacking innocent road users.
A statement released on Saturday in Jalingo, the Taraba State capital, said troops stationed at the Forward Operating Base (FOB) in Wukari responded quickly to the alert and moved to the scene.
“Troops stationed at the Forward Operating Base in Wukari swiftly responded to the alert and moved to the scene,” the statement said.
On arrival, the soldiers reportedly met an empty scene as the attackers fled into nearby bushes after sighting the troops. The criminals abandoned their victims but managed to escape with their motorcycle.
The two rescued victims were identified as Mr Terso Kerso, aged 48, and Mr Udongu Terbo, aged 42. Both men are from Ikyior community in Wukari Local Government Area.
According to the army, the victims were found unconscious at the scene of the attack. They were immediately evacuated to the Federal University Teaching Hospital, Wukari (FUTHW), where they received urgent medical care.
The statement, signed by the 6 Brigade spokesperson, Lieutenant Umar Muhammad, confirmed that the victims were responding to treatment and were in stable condition.
Security sources said the attackers likely intended to kidnap the victims for ransom, a crime that has become common on some highways in the state and other parts of the country.
The Wukari–Ikyior road is an important route that links several farming communities to Wukari town. Residents and travellers frequently use the road to transport agricultural produce and goods. However, in recent years, the road has become a concern due to occasional reports of armed robbery and kidnapping.
Operation Whirl Stroke was launched by the Nigerian Army to address security challenges in parts of Benue, Taraba, and Nasarawa states. The operation focuses on tackling kidnapping, banditry, armed robbery, and communal violence in the region.
Taraba State, like many other states in Nigeria’s Middle Belt, has faced security challenges linked to criminal gangs, communal disputes, and attacks on highways. These incidents have disrupted daily life and affected farming and trading activities.
Residents of Wukari and surrounding communities have often complained about the activities of criminals who take advantage of bushy areas and poorly secured roads to carry out attacks.
The Nigerian Army said it has stepped up patrols and surveillance in response to the latest incident. According to the statement, soldiers have increased their presence along the Wukari–Ikyior axis to prevent further criminal activity.
“In response to the incident, troops have intensified patrols and surveillance in the area to prevent further criminal activities, assuring residents and road users of a sustained security presence,” the statement added.
The Commander of 6 Brigade Nigerian Army and Sector 3 OPWS, Brigadier General Kingsley Chidiebere Uwa, commended the troops for their quick action and professionalism.
He said their swift response helped to save lives and prevent the criminals from achieving their aim.
“The timely intervention of our troops prevented possible loss of lives,” Brigadier General Uwa said.
The brigade commander reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s commitment to maintaining peace and security across its area of responsibility. He stressed that the army would continue to carry out proactive operations to protect lives and property.
General Uwa also appealed to members of the public to support security agencies by providing timely and credible information. He noted that cooperation from residents is key to the success of security operations.
“We urge members of the public to continue to provide useful and timely information to security agencies to support ongoing efforts to maintain peace and security in Taraba State,” he said.
Security experts say quick response to distress calls is critical in preventing kidnappings and other violent crimes. They note that many successful rescue operations depend on early information from the public.
Residents of Ikyior community expressed relief over the rescue of the victims. Some described the soldiers’ intervention as timely and praised the army for its presence in the area.
A community leader, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the incident had caused fear among residents but added that the army’s action had restored confidence.
“We were very worried when we heard that people were attacked on the road,” he said. “But we are grateful that the soldiers acted fast and saved their lives.”
The latest operation comes amid ongoing efforts by security agencies to make highways safer across Nigeria. Kidnapping for ransom has remained a major concern, especially on roads linking rural communities.
In Taraba State, authorities have continued to work with the military, police, and local vigilante groups to improve security. Patrols, checkpoints, and intelligence gathering have been strengthened in some areas.
While challenges remain, the Nigerian Army says it remains determined to deny criminals freedom of movement and ensure the safety of residents and travellers.
