Troops of Operation Whirl Stroke have rescued two kidnapped immigration officers in Benue State.
The soldiers launched a swift search-and-rescue mission, forcing the abductors to abandon their captives.
Troops of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) have rescued two Nigerian Immigration Service officers who were kidnapped in Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State.
The officers, identified as David Iorwuese James and Orasuur Oliver, were abducted several weeks ago near the Benue–Taraba border. Acting on credible intelligence from superior authorities, OPWS troops launched a coordinated search-and-rescue operation on Friday, September 26, 2025, targeting Tse Tembe and Adamawa Village in the Azendeshi Council Ward of Ukum LGA.
According to Lieutenant Ahmad Zubairu, Acting Media Information Officer of OPWS, the operation was carried out with speed and precision, forcing the kidnappers to abandon their captives. Both officers were recovered unharmed at Adamawa Village, given initial medical checks and are now being debriefed in military custody.
Force Commander of OPWS, Major General Moses Gara, applauded the troops for their professionalism and dedication. He said the rescue demonstrated the force’s ability to respond quickly to emergencies, protect rural communities, and support farmers to boost food security in Benue and neighboring states.
General Gara also called on residents to promptly share credible information with security agencies, emphasizing that community cooperation is essential to defeat criminal networks and sustain peace.
