Troops of the 6 Brigade, Nigerian Army/Sector 3 of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS), have intensified operations against kidnappers and other criminal elements in Wukari Local Government Area of Taraba State, assuring commuters of improved safety along major roads.
On January 29, 2026, the troops swiftly responded to gunshots along the Kasuwan Shanu–Jootar Road, near a Nigeria Police checkpoint in Wukari. At the scene, they discovered a Sharon bus, with Lagos registration number LSR 445 XT, conveying nine passengers. The driver, identified as Mr Abdul Amukama, a 45-year-old from Makurdi, sustained a gunshot wound to his right hand.
Preliminary investigations revealed that before the arrival of troops, suspected kidnappers had forcibly abducted two passengers into the surrounding bush.
In response, troops of 6 Brigade immediately launched an aggressive search-and-rescue operation across the area to secure the release of the abducted victims. The operation is ongoing, with sustained pressure being maintained on the fleeing criminals.
The injured driver was promptly evacuated to the General Hospital, Wukari, where he is currently receiving medical treatment. The affected vehicle has been recovered and secured by the authorities.
Commenting on the operation, the Commander, 6 Brigade Nigerian Army/Sector 3 OPWS, Brigadier General Kingsley Chidiebere Uwa, commended the troops for their prompt response and professionalism. He reaffirmed the Brigade’s commitment to the protection of lives and property, urged road users to carry on with their lawful activities without fear, and called on residents to continue providing timely and credible information to security agencies in support of ongoing operations.
