In a remarkable operation, troops from the 6 Brigade, Sector 3, part of the Nigerian Army's Operation Whirl Stroke, have successfully rescued a woman who had been kidnapped by suspected herdsmen. This rescue occurred during an extensive crackdown on criminal activities within Taraba State. Lieutenant Umar Muhammad, the Acting Assistant Director of Army Public Relations for the 6 Brigade, shared the details in a statement reported by TVC News on Monday.
The rescue mission took place on December 13, 2025, in Torikegha Village, located in the Chanchanji Ward of the Takum Local Government Area. The statement revealed that the operation was initiated following reliable intelligence received by the troops stationed at Kufai Amadu about the abduction of a woman in the vicinity. Acting swiftly upon this information, the soldiers mobilized and proceeded to the affected area with determination.
Upon their arrival, further inquiries uncovered that the victim, identified as Mrs. Iloda Ayinba, was taken while she was heading to her farm. The suspected kidnappers were believed to be herdsmen who were moving away from the region.
The troops quickly traced the escape routes used by the abductors and undertook an aggressive search-and-rescue operation throughout the surrounding terrain, even extending their efforts to the power line corridor that separates Benue and Taraba States. Overwhelmed by the relentless pursuit from the advancing forces, the kidnappers abandoned Mrs. Ayinba in the bush and fled the scene.
In an encouraging turn of events, Mrs. Iloda Ayinba was found unharmed and subsequently returned safely to the local village leaders. The community expressed immense gratitude towards the Nigerian Army for their prompt intervention, highlighting the importance of such actions in ensuring public safety.
In response to the successful operation, Brigadier General Kingsley Chidiebere Uwa, the Commander of the 6 Brigade, reaffirmed the unit’s dedication to safeguarding the lives of law-abiding citizens, particularly farmers and residents in Taraba State. He underscored the Brigade's commitment to maintaining vigorous operations to ensure a peaceful environment, especially as the festive Yuletide season approaches, allowing farmers to conduct their work without fear or harassment.
Moreover, the Commander encouraged the public to continue providing the Nigerian Army with timely and trustworthy information, emphasizing that such collaboration is vital for the success of ongoing security operations across the state.
