Troops rescue kidnap victim in Plateau

Troops of Operation Enduring Peace (OPEP) have rescued a kidnap victim unharmed in Gura Topp, Jos South Local Government Area of Plateau State, amid growing concerns over repeated abductions in the area.

PREMIUM TIMES reliably gathered that no fewer than eight people have been kidnapped within one month along the Lo Pam Dyet, Gura Topp and Rahol Kanang axis of the local government area.

Family sources disclosed that millions of naira were paid as ransom to secure the release of some of the victims, as residents grapple with growing insecurity and the financial burden of negotiating for the freedom of abducted relatives.

The latest rescue was reported by Zagazola Makama, a security publication, which said troops of Sector 1 of OPEP responded to an abduction report in Gura Topp on 23 October.

According to the report, the suspected kidnappers fled before the troops arrived, and the victim was subsequently rescued unharmed.

Efforts were reportedly ongoing to track down and apprehend the fleeing suspects.

Our correspondent reports that security has been intensified across the affected communities, with security personnel stepping up operations and enforcing restrictions on nighttime movement.

Residents report that motorcycles and tricycles were being intercepted, while their operators faced enforcement measures from 7 p.m. in parts of the affected areas. The measures have added to the security presence as authorities seek to curb criminal activities.

Despite the increased security presence, community leaders have continued to express concern over the frequency of abductions and the fear among residents.

The latest rescue offers some relief to residents, but the reported pattern of abductions has renewed calls for sustained security operations and stronger protection for communities along the Lo Pam Dyer, Gura Topp and Rahol Kanang axis.

As of the time of filing this report, no official statement had been issued detailing the number of recent abductions or arrests linked to the incidents.