*As Force Commander hails gallant troops, urges communities’ support
Troops of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) have scored a major breakthrough with the rescue of two Immigration officers abducted by kidnappers in Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State.
The daring operation, carried out on September 26, 2025, followed “credible intelligence” on the abduction of David Iorwuese James and Orasuur Oliver, both serving in the Nigerian Immigration Service.
According to a statement by Lieutenant Ahmad Zubairu, Acting Media Information Officer, OPWS, the troops launched a coordinated search and rescue mission in Tse Tembe and Adamawa Village, within Azendeshi Council Ward, Ukum LGA.
“The successful recovery of the two victims was achieved at Adamawa Village after the kidnappers fled on sighting the troops. The officers are currently safe and receiving medical attention and debriefing,” the statement read.
Force Commander, Major General Moses Gara, while commending the troops, said the rescue “demonstrates the unshaken resolve of OPWS to respond swiftly to distress calls, safeguard citizens, and sustain efforts to protect farmers in order to boost food security across Benue and adjoining states.”
He urged communities to intensify cooperation with security agencies, stressing: “Timely and credible information remains vital in curbing criminal activities. Together, we can secure our communities.”