Police, military rescue five kidnap victims in Taraba, two still missing

The Taraba State Police Command has rescued five victims of kidnap following a swift joint operation with the military, after an abduction incident along the Wukari–Zaki Biam road.

According to a statement issued by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, ASP James Lashén Saminu, on Friday, the victims were kidnapped on the night of October 2, 2025, at Kasuwan Shanu when armed men ambushed a red Toyota Carina II vehicle, with registration number BSA 766AE.

The car, driven by one Terna Gbaya from Zaki-Biam, according to the police, was carrying seven passengers when it was intercepted by the criminals, who led all the occupants into the nearby bush.


“On 2nd October 2025, at about 10:35hrs, the Command received a distress call reporting the abduction, which occurred around 22:10hrs the same night.

The Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Wukari Division, in collaboration with the military, immediately mobilized a team to the scene. Their rapid response and pursuit of the kidnappers forced the release of five of the abducted victims,”the statement read.

The rescued individuals, the command said are, Musa Adamu (male), Rose Sor (female), Lydia Vyiashima (female), Comfort Iyofar (female),and Terna Gbaya (male)

He said efforts are ongoing to locate and rescue the remaining victims, as well as apprehend the perpetrators.

The Commissioner of Police, Betty Enekpen Isokpan Otimenyin, lauded the gallant efforts of the officers and soldiers involved in the operation.

She reassured the public of the Command’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding lives and property across the state.

“We remain determined to bring the culprits to justice and ensure the safety of all residents in Taraba,” she affirmed.

The police also asked members of the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the nearest security agency.