Troops of the 6 Brigade Nigerian Army/Sub Sector 3 Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) have arrested six suspected kidnappers in a series of operations conducted within Taraba State, two of whom attempted to bribe the soldiers with N2 million. The operations took place on May 19, 2024.
Following a tip-off, troops from the 93 Battalion Sub-Sector 3B OPWS, stationed at the Forward Operating Base in Wukari, executed a raid in Chinkai Village, Wukari Local Government Area. According to a statement by Lieutenant Oni Olubodunde, Acting Assistant Director of 6 Brigade Army Public Relations, the raid resulted in the arrest of two individuals, Usman Gide Ali and Abdulrahman Amadu. These suspects have been wanted for their involvement in multiple kidnappings in Wukari and the surrounding areas.
“Upon their arrest, the suspects (suspected kidnappers) tried to bribe the troops with N2 million for their release. However, the soldiers firmly rejected the bribe, demonstrating their commitment to justice and integrity,” the statement read. “The suspects were also overheard saying that if money fails to secure their freedom, their associates would use 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 additional suspected kidnappers: Jafaru Banyi, Mohammad Ardo, Amadu Lawal Shatta, and Biyu Ardu. These individuals have been linked to several high-profile abductions in the region, targeting both locals and foreigners for ransom, and have been under surveillance by security agencies for some time.
Brigadier General Kingsley Uwa, Commander of 6 Brigade/Sector 3 OPWS, commended the troops for their bravery 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, and highlighted their refusal to accept bribes as a clear demonstration of their professionalism and integrity.
