The Taraba State Police Command has rescued two kidnapped victims during a raid on a kidnappers’ hideout in Isinyi Forest, Tapga Village, Ibi local government council.
In a statement issued by the Command’s spokesperson, Abdullahi Usman, the operation took place in the early hours of January 21, 2025.
The operation which led to the arrest, was said to have been conducted by detectives from the Ibi Division, with support from local vigilantes and hunters.
“Based on credible intelligence about suspicious movements by suspected kidnappers around 5:00 a.m., the team swiftly mobilized to the location and engaged the kidnappers in a gun battle. The suspects were overpowered and fled into the forest, leaving behind two victims tied with ropes,” the statement read.
The victims, identified as Alhaji Tafiyanu and Abubakar Isa, are also confirmed to be residents of Garin Bashar in Wase Local Government Area, in the nearby Plateau State.
“One of the victims, Alhaji Tafiyanu, sustained a deep cut on his left hand inflicted by the kidnappers. He is currently receiving treatment at the First Referral Hospital in Ibi and is reported to be in stable condition,” the statement added.
Preliminary investigations confirmed that the victims were abducted from Wase, Plateau State. Efforts are underway to apprehend the fleeing suspects, with investigations ongoing.
The Commissioner of Police for Taraba State, Ukachi P. Opara, commended the collaboration between the police, hunters, and vigilantes, which led to the rescue.
He beckoned at citizens to remain law-abiding, vigilant, and supportive of security agencies’ efforts to combat crime.
The Commissioner also encouraged the public to report suspicious activities or provide useful information by contacting the Command’s control room hotline at 08030972376.