Plateau: Military task force rescues 8 kidnapped victims in Pandam forest

Troops of Sector 9 Operation Enduring Peace deployed in Namu Town, Qua’an Pan LGA of Plateau State on Wednesday, 24 June 2026, conducted a deliberate offensive operation leading to the rescue of 8 kidnapped victims at Pandam Forest in Qua’an Pan Local Government Area of Plateau State. 

This was contained in a press statement signed by Captain Chinonso Oteh, Media Information Officer, Joint Task Force Operation Enduring Peace, and made available to journalists in Jos the State Capital.

According to him, “The operation, conducted at approximately 3:00am following credible intelligence regarding the presence of kidnappers in the forest, highlights the troops’ unwavering commitment to restoring peace and security as well as the protection of citizens across Operation Enduring Peace Joint Operations Area.” 

“During the operation, troops engaged in a firefight with the suspected kidnappers, who fired sporadically in an attempt to withdraw.” 

“Utilising the ensuing chaos, 3 of the kidnapped victims managed to escape earlier from the kidnapper’s custody. 

“Subsequent exploitation and thorough combing of the forest by the troops led to the rescue of an additional 5 abducted victims, bringing the total number of rescued individuals to 8.” 

“The rescued victims are currently in safe condition and efforts are ongoing to unite them with their respective families”, he explained.

Additionally, “this successful operation has been highly applauded by members of the local communities who indicated willingness to continue to provide useful information to ensure the arrest of the kidnappers.” 

“Troops are currently on pursuit to apprehend or neutralise fleeing kidnappers. Operation Enduring Peace appreciates the citizens for their cooperation and calls for more support in disrupting criminal elements and restoring the desired peace across the Joint Operations Area”, Oteh maintained.