The Nigerian Army personnel attached to Troops of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) have rescued two Nigerian Immigration Service officers abducted by kidnappers in Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State.
The officers, identified as David Iorwuese James and Orasuur Oliver, were freed on Friday after a military operation in the Azendeshi axis.
According to a statement signed by the Acting Media Information Officer of OPWS, Lieutenant Ahmad Zubairu, the rescue followed “credible intelligence” on the movement of the victims and their abductors.
The troops reportedly stormed Tse Tembe and Adamawa Village, where the kidnappers had kept the officers. On sighting the soldiers, the criminals abandoned their captives and fled into nearby bushes.
The statement reads: “Troops of Operation WHIRL STROKE (OPWS) have rescued two kidnapped Immigration Officers in Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State. The daring operation was carried out on 26 September 2025 following credible intelligence from Appropriate Superior Authority regarding the abduction of David Iorwuese James and Orasuur Oliver, both officers serving in the Nigerian Immigration Service.
“Acting promptly on the information, the troops launched a coordinated search and rescue mission in Tse Tembe and Adamawa Village, located within the Azendeshi Council Ward of Ukum LGA. The operation, executed with precision and speed, led to the successful recovery of the two victims at Adamawa Village after the kidnappers fled. The rescued officers are currently in safe custody of the troops receiving preliminary medical attention and debriefing.
“The Force Commander, Joint Task Force Operation WHIRL STROKE, Major General Moses Gara, commended the gallant troops for their professionalism and unwavering commitment to duty. He noted that the success of the mission underscores the determination of Operation WHIRL STROKE to respond swiftly to distress calls, safeguard citizens, and sustain efforts in protecting farmers to enhance food security in Benue and adjoining states.
“He urged communities to continue to provide timely and credible information to security agencies, stressing that collaboration between the security forces and local residents remains vital in curbing criminal activities.”
