Troops Prevent Multiple Kidnappings and Rescue Victims During 48‑Hour Security Sweep in Plateau and Kaduna

Yemi Kosoko in Jos

Over a 48‑hour period, troops operating under Operation ENDURING PEACE carried out a series of coordinated security actions that prevented multiple kidnapping attempts, rescued several victims, and initiated intensive manhunts for fleeing criminals across Plateau and Kaduna States.

The military said the rapid interventions demonstrate its steadfast commitment to protecting commuters and residents within the Joint Operations Area.
In a statement released by Captain Chinonso Polycarp Oteh, Media Information Officer for the Joint Task Force Operation ENDURING PEACE, on 5 June 2026, troops from Sector 6 deployed in the Sopp District of Riyom Local Government Area responded to reports of suspected kidnappers who had blocked the Hawan Kibo–Rafin Sayin highway.

Upon arrival, soldiers discovered an ash‑coloured Honda vehicle with the registration number APP‑93CF abandoned in the middle of the road.

A search‑and‑rescue operation in the surrounding bushes led to the successful rescue of six passengers who had boarded the commercial vehicle from Lafiya, Nasarawa State, en route to Jos. The driver remains missing, and troops have intensified efforts to locate him.

Later that day, troops from Sector 5 in Bokkos Local Government Area responded to a distress call from Faggem Village. Their rapid deployment forced kidnappers to abandon their victims and flee into nearby forested terrain.
Soldiers rescued a pastor and his wife, both of whom sustained injuries during the attack. They were evacuated to a medical facility in Bokkos, while troops continue a manhunt for the fleeing suspects.

The statement added that in the early hours of 6 June 2026, troops from Sector 7 deployed at Ungwan Gora in Sanga Local Government Area responded to reports of terrorists blocking the Rafi Tagwai–Angwan Dariya highway. The attackers had abducted passengers travelling in a commercial vehicle before troops arrived.

Soldiers recovered eight empty 7.62 mm special ammunition cases at the scene and immediately pursued the criminals into the adjoining forest. The operation resulted in the rescue of two injured passengers, who were evacuated to a hospital in Fadan Karshi District. Efforts are ongoing to rescue the remaining abducted occupants.

Operation ENDURING PEACE reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining aggressive security operations aimed at dismantling criminal networks across the region, which includes Plateau State, Southern Kaduna, and parts of Bauchi State. The force urged citizens to remain vigilant and provide timely, actionable intelligence to aid ongoing efforts.