Army reassures commuters as troops hunt kidnappers in Wukari

By Olakunle Oke 

Troops of the 6 Brigade of the Nigerian Army, under Sector 3 of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS), have intensified operations against kidnappers and other criminal elements operating in Wukari Local Government Area of Taraba State, assuring residents and commuters of improved safety on major roads across the state.

The renewed offensive followed an incident on January 29, 2026, when troops swiftly responded to gunshots along the Kasuwan Shanu–Jootar Road, near a Nigeria Police checkpoint in Wukari Local Government Area.

On arrival at the scene, the troops found a Sharon bus with Lagos registration number LSR 445 XT conveying nine passengers. The driver, identified as Mr. Abdul Amukama, a 45-year-old from Makurdi, was discovered with a gunshot wound to his right hand.

Preliminary investigations revealed that suspected kidnappers had forcibly abducted two passengers into the bush before the arrival of security operatives.

In response, troops of the 6 Brigade immediately launched aggressive search-and-rescue operations within the area to secure the release of the abducted victims. Military sources said the operation is ongoing, with troops maintaining sustained pressure on the fleeing criminals.

The injured driver was promptly evacuated to the General Hospital in Wukari, where he is currently receiving medical treatment, while the affected vehicle was recovered and taken into custody.

Commenting on the operation, the Commander of 6 Brigade Nigerian Army and Sector 3 OPWS, Brigadier General Kingsley Chidiebere Uwa, commended the troops for their swift response and professionalism. He reassured members of the public of the Brigade’s unwavering commitment to the protection of lives and property, urged commuters to continue their lawful activities without fear, and called on residents to provide timely and credible information to security agencies to support ongoing operations.