In a determined effort to rescue the kidnapped Benue State Commissioner for Information, Culture and Tourism, Hon Mathew Abo, Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) has initiated a military operation.
The unfortunate incident took place last Sunday when gunmen invaded Hon Abo’s residence in Zaki Biam, situated in the Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State. The abductors have made contact with the commissioner’s family, demanding a ransom of N60 million.
Driven by a sense of urgency, a rigorous search operation is currently underway to secure the safe release of Hon Abo from the clutches of his captors. Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS), in collaboration with other reputable security agencies, is leading this effort.
Speaking on the matter, a reliable source revealed, “Officers and personnel of OPWS and other security agencies have been instructed to work diligently towards rescuing the kidnapped commissioner. The heads of various security agencies, under the leadership of Major General Sunday Igbinowanhia, the Force Commander of OPWS, are determined to ensure Hon Abo’s freedom.”
Addressing the speculation surrounding a ransom demand, the military officer emphasized that OPWS does not negotiate with insurgents and bandits. He stated, “Our forces are actively combing the surrounding areas and forests, and it won’t be long before we receive positive news. We are working in conjunction with other security agencies in the Joint Operations Area to rescue Hon Abo.”
Supporting the military’s zealous efforts, the Benue State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Catherine Anene, confirmed that the search operation for the abducted commissioner is a combined effort involving multiple law enforcement agencies. “It is a joint operation in search of the abducted commissioner, which involves the military. We are all working together,” Anene confirmed.
