In a bold and expertly executed mission, troops of the 6 Brigade Nigerian Army/Sector 3 Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS), in close collaboration with operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS), have successfully rescued Engineer Joshua Saleh, a lecturer at Taraba State University, who was abducted by suspected criminals on July 31, 2025.
The daring rescue operation took place in the early hours of Sunday, following actionable intelligence that led troops through key locations, including Kente, Sondi 1 and 2, Yaku, and the Warawa general area in Wukari Local Government Area.
According to the Acting Assistant Director of Army Public Relations for 6 Brigade, Lieutenant Umar Muhammad, the operation resulted in a direct confrontation with the kidnappers. A fierce gun battle ensued, during which the criminals, overwhelmed by the superior firepower of the security forces, fled and abandoned their captive.
Engineer Saleh was found unharmed and has since been reunited with his family, bringing relief to the university community and residents of the area.
Reacting to the development, the Commander of 6 Brigade NA/Sector 3 OPWS, Brigadier General Kingsley Chidiebere Uwa, commended the troops for their gallantry, swift action, and coordination with other security agencies. He emphasized the professionalism and dedication displayed during the successful rescue mission.
Brigadier General Uwa reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s unwavering commitment to protecting lives and maintaining peace and security across Taraba State and beyond.
He called on residents to remain alert and to continue cooperating with security agencies by providing timely and credible information that could aid in combating criminal activities.
The rescue has been widely praised as a testament to the effectiveness of inter-agency collaboration and the Nigerian Army's resolve to confront criminal elements head-on.