Taraba Police Thwart Daring Kidnap Attempt, Rescue 17 Passengers in Midnight Operation

By Emmanuel Kwada

In a swift and decisive operation, the Taraba State Police Command successfully foiled a kidnapping attempt along the Wukari highway, rescuing all 17 passengers of a Toyota bus ambushed by armed suspects in the early hours of July 12, 2025.

The operation, detailed in an official press release (Ref No. CZ:5650/TRS/SHQ/PPRO/VOL.T/66, dated July 13, 2025), underscores the command’s relentless efforts to combat the rising tide of kidnapping in the state.

According to the press release issued by ASP James Lashen Saminu, Acting Police Public Relations Officer for the Taraba State Command, the incident occurred at approximately 11:45 p.m. on July 12, 2025.

A distress call alerted the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Wukari Division, CSP Anthony Jerry, that a white Toyota bus operated by People’s Choice Company (plate number 26G-17TR), carrying 17 passengers traveling from Enugu to Yola, Adamawa State, had been intercepted by suspected armed kidnappers along the highway near Federal University Wukari.

The kidnappers, caught off guard by the rapid response, fled into the surrounding bushes, abandoning their captives

Acting on the intelligence, CSP Jerry swiftly mobilized a patrol team, supported by military personnel stationed nearby, and advanced to the scene. The kidnappers, caught off guard by the rapid response, fled into the surrounding bushes, abandoning their captives.

The joint security team rescued all passengers, though one, Sadiq Usman, a 22-year-old male of Chamba descent, was initially unaccounted for. A thorough search of the area by the operatives led to his safe recovery, unharmed. All 17 passengers were reported to be in good health following the ordeal.

The Taraba State Police Command has launched an intensive manhunt to apprehend the fleeing suspects and prevent further incidents. “Serious manhunt ongoing with a view to arresting the fleeing suspects and preventing further occurrences,” the press release stated.

The operation highlights the effectiveness of coordinated efforts between the police and other security agencies in tackling the scourge of kidnapping, which has plagued parts of Taraba State and Nigeria’s North-East.

Serious manhunt ongoing with a view to arresting the fleeing suspects and preventing further occurrences

Commissioner of Police, Taraba State Command, CP Emmanuel Bretet Simon, praised the operatives for their “uncommon feat” and reaffirmed the command’s unwavering commitment to rooting out criminal elements in collaboration with sister security agencies.

“The Taraba State Police Command remains resolute in its fight against kidnapping and other crimes,” the press release noted, emphasizing the importance of public cooperation in maintaining security.

The press release also urged the public to play an active role in supporting security efforts by promptly reporting suspicious activities.

“The Commissioner of Police further urged the public to continue supporting the efforts of the command as well as other security agencies by timely reporting suspicious activities,” ASP Saminu wrote. This call to action reflects the command’s recognition that community vigilance is critical to preventing and responding to criminal threats in real time.

The successful rescue operation comes at a time when Taraba State and neighboring regions face heightened security challenges, including kidnapping, banditry, and communal violence. The swift response by the Wukari Division and military personnel demonstrates the potential for effective law enforcement when resources and intelligence are deployed promptly.