Troops from the 401 Special Forces Brigade of the Nigerian Army, in collaboration with Sector One, have successfully rescued a member of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) and six other individuals from kidnappers in Tse-Annaka, near Wukari/Zaki-Biam in Benue State.
The rescued corps member, 29-year-old Samuel Muekara, graduated in law and was serving in the area when he was abducted.
The other victims, who were taken at different times, include Anaelechi Bob, 32; Ayuba Luka, 28; Ibrahim Umar, 30; Rabiu Muhammad, 48; Buhari Ahmadu Saleh, 17; and Blessing Ayuba, 47. Their experiences highlight the growing issue of kidnapping for ransom in the region.
A security source, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, identified the kidnappers as part of a gang operating in the area, linked to the notorious criminal leader, Terwase Akwaza, also known as Gana.
The source noted that these armed bandits are known to the local population, yet many residents are afraid to come forward with information due to fear of reprisals. “These bandits operate openly, and locals often feel powerless to report their activities,” the source stated.
The rescued victims shared their harrowing experiences at a military camp in Zaki-Biam. Many described being held captive for several days in harsh conditions before the military arrived to free them. “Some of us were taken to nearby villages, where the kidnappers had set up their hideouts. They operated without fear, often in broad daylight,” one victim recounted.
The victims explained that the kidnappers have made abduction a profitable business, with families often forced to raise large sums of money for ransom. In some cases, individuals attempting to pay ransoms for their relatives ended up being kidnapped themselves.
For instance, Rabiu Muhammad was taken hostage while trying to secure the release of his cousin, Ibrahim Umar. Similarly, Blessing Ayuba was abducted while attempting to pay a ransom for her son, Luka.
In a shocking revelation, the corps member, Samuel Muekara, reported that the families of the victims collectively raised over N20 million in ransom and lost various valuables during their ordeal. Despite these efforts, they were still held captive until the military intervened.
The situation underscores the urgent need for increased community cooperation with security forces to combat this growing menace.
Local residents must understand that their safety depends on collective action and communication with security agencies. “If the community works together and shares information, we can help the troops identify and apprehend these criminals,” the security source emphasized.
As the military continues its efforts to secure the area, the recent rescue operation serves as a reminder of the ongoing battle against kidnapping and the importance of community vigilance and support.
