The Headquarters of 6 Brigade, Nigerian Army/Sector 3, Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS), has addressed what it describes as inaccuracies in a recent press release by the Taraba State Police Command concerning the rescue of Mr. Gil Itamar, an Israeli national and staff of SCC Company, kidnapped on 3 April 2025 along the Takum–Chanchangi Road in Atim Community, Takum Local Government Area.
While commending the spirit of collaboration among security agencies, Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations 6 Brigade, Captain Olubodunde Oni clarified that Mr. Itamar was not under military escort at the time of his abduction, as stated by the police. According to the Army, the victim was travelling alone, without a driver or any military personnel.
The Army further disclosed that the successful rescue operation was initiated and led by the Commanding Officer of 93 Battalion, Nigerian Army, Takum. The operation, they said, was intelligence-driven and executed in partnership with local stakeholders. Notably, the Army emphasized that no force was used; the victim was freed through coordinated pressure on local village heads and youth leaders in communities including Kofai Ahmadu, Apako, and Chanchangi, which produced credible intelligence on his whereabouts.
The Army urged the Taraba State Police Command to verify information thoroughly before issuing public statements, especially on joint security matters. According to the statement, inaccurate reporting can mislead the public and diminish trust in security efforts.
6 Brigade reaffirmed its commitment to continued collaboration with all security stakeholders to safeguard residents and visitors in Taraba State.
