MAKURDI, September 27, 2025 –Â Troops of the Joint Task Force Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) have rescued two kidnapped officers of the Nigeria Immigration Service in Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State, following a coordinated operation against criminal elements.
According to a statement issued by Lt. Ahmad Zubairu, Acting Media Information Officer at OPWS headquarters, the operation was launched on Friday after credible intelligence was received from superior authorities regarding the abduction of Immigration officers David Iorwuese and Oliver Orasuur. He explained that troops conducted a search-and-rescue mission in Tse Tembe and Adamawa Village, located within Azendeshi Council Ward of Ukum LGA, where the officers were successfully freed after the kidnappers fled.
Zubairu confirmed that the rescued officers were immediately placed in the safe custody of troops, where they are receiving medical attention and undergoing debriefing. He emphasized that the operation was executed with precision and speed, which ensured the safe recovery of the victims without further incident.
Commending the troops, OPWS Force Commander Maj.-Gen. Moses Gara highlighted their professionalism and unwavering commitment to duty, noting that the mission’s success underscores the determination of security forces to respond swiftly to distress calls, safeguard citizens, and protect farmers in order to enhance food security in Benue State and neighboring areas.
Gara further called on local communities to continue providing timely and credible intelligence to security agencies, stressing that strong collaboration between residents and security forces is essential to curbing kidnapping, banditry, and other forms of criminality in the region. GMTNewsng
