By Divine Sam
Troops from the 401 Special Forces Brigade of the Nigerian Army, in collaboration with Sector One, successfully rescued a National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member and six other victims from kidnappers in Tse-Annaka, Benue State. The corps member, Samuel Muekara, a 29-year-old law graduate, was among those held captive.
The rescued individuals, kidnapped at different times, included Anaelechi Bob (32), Ayuba Luka (28), Ibrahim Umar (30), Rabiu Muhammad (48), Buhari Ahmadu Saleh (17), and Blessing Ayuba (47). A security source noted that the bandits involved, linked to the late notorious kingpin Terwase Akwaza, operated openly in the region, instilling fear in local communities.
Victims recounted being held for days in various nearby villages, where the kidnappers used local homes as hideouts. They highlighted the community’s fear of retaliation, which hindered cooperation with security forces. Despite families raising over N20 million in ransom, the victims remained captive until the military’s intervention.
The situation underscores the importance of community involvement in security efforts, as locals are often aware of the criminals but fear repercussions for speaking out.