Troops of the Nigerian Army’s 6 Brigade, Sector 3 of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS), in collaboration with operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS), have successfully rescued Engineer Joshua Saleh, a lecturer at Taraba State University, who was kidnapped earlier this week.
Engineer Saleh was abducted by suspected criminals on July 31, 2025, along the Chinkai–Kente–Wukari road in Wukari Local Government Area of Taraba State.
According to a statement released by the military on Sunday, the rescue operation was launched following actionable intelligence. The joint security forces carried out a targeted search across multiple locations including Kente, Sondi 1 and 2, Yaku, and the Warawa general area.
During the mission, troops engaged the kidnappers in a fierce gunfight. The armed assailants, overwhelmed by the superior firepower, fled the scene, abandoning their captive. Engineer Saleh was found unharmed and was immediately rescued.
Lt. Umar Muhammad, Acting Assistant Director of Army Public Relations for 6 Brigade, confirmed the successful operation and praised the coordinated efforts of the army and DSS.
Brigadier General Kingsley Chidiebere Uwa, Commander of 6 Brigade and Sector 3 OPWS, commended the troops for their professionalism, swift response, and effective coordination. He reassured the public of the military’s commitment to ensuring safety and peace across Taraba State.
He also called on residents to remain alert and to continue providing timely and credible information to support the ongoing fight against criminal elements in the region.
