Troops neutralise six kidnappers, rescue abducted woman in Plateau

Troops of Sector 6 under Operation OPEP have neutralised six suspected kidnappers and rescued an abducted woman during a clearance operation in Angwan Boka, Sopp District of Riyom, Plateau State.

Security sources said the raid was conducted at about 6:20 p.m. on Feb. 17, following credible intelligence obtained from two suspects arrested a day earlier and confirmed to be members of a kidnapping syndicate.

During interrogation, the suspects reportedly revealed the location of their accomplices’ hideout and disclosed that a woman abducted around 6:00 a.m. the same day was being held at the camp.

Acting swiftly, troops advanced to the location with the arrested suspects and came under fire on arrival. In the ensuing gun battle, several kidnappers were neutralised.

The two suspects in custody allegedly attempted to escape amid the exchange by trying to disarm the troops but were quickly overpowered.

Items recovered at the scene included three mobile phones, ₦17,600 in cash and substances suspected to be illicit drugs.

The abducted victim, identified as Hauwa Suleiman, was rescued unharmed, debriefed and reunited with her family.

Sources added that troops have sustained offensive operations in the area to pursue fleeing members of the gang and dismantle the remaining elements of the criminal network.