Troops of Operation ENDURING PEACE have foiled multiple kidnapping attempts and rescued several victims in coordinated operations across Plateau and Kaduna states, reinforcing ongoing efforts to secure highways and communities within the Joint Operations Area.
In Riyom Local Government Area of Plateau State, troops of Sector 6 deployed in Sopp District responded to reports of suspected kidnappers who had blocked the Hawan Kibo–Rafin Sayin highway in the early hours of June 5, 2026. Upon arrival, security personnel discovered an ash-coloured Honda vehicle, bearing registration number APP-93CF, abandoned on the roadway.
The troops immediately launched a search-and-rescue operation in the surrounding bush, leading to the successful rescue of six abducted passengers. The victims disclosed that they had boarded the commercial vehicle in Lafia, Nasarawa State, and were travelling to Jos when they were attacked. While the passengers were rescued unharmed, the driver remains missing, and efforts are ongoing to locate him.
In a separate operation in Bokkos Local Government Area, troops of Sector 5 responded to a distress call from Faggem Village on June 5. The swift deployment disrupted an ongoing abduction attempt, forcing the kidnappers to abandon their victims and flee into a nearby forest.
During the operation, troops rescued a pastor and his wife who had been seized by the criminals. The couple sustained injuries during the attack and were evacuated to the Bokkos Medical Clinic for treatment. Security forces have since launched a manhunt to apprehend the fleeing suspects.
Similarly, troops of Sector 7 stationed at Ungwan Gora in Sanga Local Government Area of Kaduna State responded to reports in the early hours of June 6 that suspected terrorists had blocked the highway between Rafi Tagwai and Angwan Dariya.
On reaching the scene, the troops discovered that some passengers travelling in a commercial vehicle had been abducted. Security personnel recovered eight empty cases of 7.62mm special ammunition and immediately pursued the attackers into the adjoining forest.
The operation resulted in the rescue of two injured passengers, who were subsequently evacuated to a hospital in Fadan Karshi District for medical treatment. Efforts are continuing to rescue the remaining abducted passengers and apprehend those responsible.
Operation ENDURING PEACE reiterated its commitment to sustaining offensive operations against criminal elements and ensuring the safety of residents and road users. The military also urged members of the public to remain vigilant and provide timely intelligence to security agencies to support ongoing security efforts.
