Troops of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) have successfully rescued two officers of the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) who were abducted by armed kidnappers in Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State.
The daring operation was carried out on Friday, September 26, 2025, after the task force received credible intelligence from higher command regarding the kidnap of David Iorwuese James and Orasuur Oliver, both serving immigration officers.
According to the Acting Media Information Officer of OPWS, Lieutenant Ahmad Zubairu, the troops responded swiftly by launching a well-coordinated search-and-rescue mission in Tse Tembe and Adamawa Village, located within Azendeshi Council Ward of Ukum LGA.
He explained that the rescue team advanced on the kidnappers’ hideout with precision and speed, overwhelming the abductors and forcing them to flee. The two victims were subsequently freed at Adamawa Village without any injury. They were immediately placed under the care of military medics for preliminary medical checks and debriefing.
The Force Commander, Joint Task Force OPWS, Major General Moses Gara, commended the gallant troops for their professionalism, courage, and resilience. He noted that the successful mission once again demonstrated the determination of OPWS to act decisively in safeguarding citizens from criminal elements.
“This operation underscores our commitment to responding swiftly to distress calls and ensuring that the lives and safety of Nigerians are protected. It also aligns with our broader mandate of protecting farming communities across Benue and adjoining states in order to enhance food security,” Major General Gara said.
He emphasized that security agencies cannot achieve lasting success in isolation and urged residents of host communities to continue providing timely and credible intelligence to the task force. According to him, strong collaboration between the military and local residents remains critical to tackling kidnappings, banditry, and other crimes.
The rescue of the immigration officers has been widely welcomed as a boost to ongoing counter-kidnapping operations in Benue, a state that has in recent years grappled with violent crimes and attacks on farming communities by armed groups. Operation Whirl Stroke, a Joint Task Force established to restore peace and stability in Benue, Nasarawa, and Taraba States, has been at the forefront of combating insurgent activities, banditry, and kidnappings in the North-Central region.
Security experts say the latest success will not only improve public confidence in the task force but also send a strong signal to criminal gangs that security agencies remain vigilant and capable of neutralizing threats.
Meanwhile, the rescued officers are expected to reunite with their families after completing medical evaluation and providing useful intelligence to assist in further operations against their abductors.
