The Nigerian Army has firmly denied allegations made by the Taraba State Police Command suggesting that an Israeli national abducted earlier this week was under military escort at the time of his kidnapping.
In a statement issued on Saturday by Captain Olubodunde Oni, Acting Assistant Director of Army Public Relations, 6 Brigade Nigerian Army/Sector 3 Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS), the Army described the police report as “false and misleading.”
The victim, identified as Mr. Itamar, an Israeli national and staff member of SCC Company, was kidnapped on April 3 along the Takum–Chanchangi Road in Atim Community, Takum Local Government Area of Taraba State.
“The victim was alone in his vehicle, without a military escort or driver when the incident occurred,” the statement clarified.
The Army emphasized that the successful rescue operation was spearheaded by the Commanding Officer of the 93 Battalion, Nigerian Army, Takum.
According to the Army, the intelligence-driven operation was conducted in collaboration with local community leaders from Kofai Ahmadu, Apako, and Chanchangi.
Notably, no weapons were fired during the operation. Instead, strategic pressure was applied to local village heads and youth leaders, which led to critical intelligence and the eventual release of Mr. Itamar.
While expressing gratitude for ongoing inter-agency cooperation, the Army cautioned the Taraba State Police Command against releasing inaccurate information that could mislead the public and undermine security efforts.
“6 Brigade Nigerian Army/Sector 3 OPWS remains committed to the safety and security of all residents and visitors in Taraba State,” the statement concluded.