Crime

How Kidnapped Taraba University Lecturer was Rescued by Army and DSS

Published by Tope Fakinlede on August 5th, 2025.

How Kidnapped Taraba University Lecturer was Rescued by Army and DSS

A joint operation by troops of the Nigerian Army’s 6 Brigade and operatives from the Department of State Services (DSS) has led to the successful rescue of Engineer Joshua Saleh, a lecturer at Taraba State University. Saleh was abducted on July 31 along the Chinkai–Kente–Wukari road.

The rescue mission was conducted in the early hours of Saturday as part of a coordinated effort between Sector 3 of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) and the DSS. Acting on reliable intelligence, security forces launched a targeted search-and-rescue operation across several locations, including Kente, Sondi 1 and 2, Yaku, and the Warawa axis in Wukari Local Government Area.

During the mission, the security team encountered the kidnappers and engaged them in a gun battle. The assailants were eventually overpowered, prompting them to flee and abandon their victim. Engineer Saleh was recovered unhurt and has since been reunited with his family.

In a statement released in Jalingo on Sunday, the Commander of 6 Brigade and Sector 3 OPWS, Brigadier General Kingsley Chidiebere Uwa, praised the professionalism and swift action of the troops. He also highlighted the effective collaboration between the Army and the DSS, describing the operation as a demonstration of strong inter-agency coordination.

General Uwa reiterated the military’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property in Taraba State and urged residents to remain alert and report any suspicious activity to the authorities.

This rescue operation comes amid intensified efforts by the military to combat kidnapping, banditry, and other criminal activities across the state.