How Police Used Local Hunters to Rescue 40 Kidnapped Victims in Taraba Mountain Operation

The Taraba State Police, led by Commissioner David Iloyanomon, has revealed how they employed local hunters to rescue 40 individuals who had fallen victim to kidnapping in various communities. The affected areas included Dilla, Lanko, and Gampu in Yorro Local Government Area, as well as Dekko and Kotsensi in Monkin B ward, Zing Local Government Area.

The victims were rescued from the formidable Gongomaliki mountain in Yorro, where the kidnappers had established a stronghold, making it challenging for conventional security forces to breach their defenses.

Commissioner Iloyanomon explained that the police strategically leveraged the expertise of local hunters familiar with the mountainous terrain. This collaboration enabled the hunters to dislodge the kidnappers, neutralizing some in the process.

“We deployed a strategy of using local hunters and vigilantes, who dislodged them, neutralized some, and rescued 40 victims, while police operatives at strategic locations arrested 10 suspects who were fleeing the mountain,” stated Commissioner Iloyanomon during a press briefing.

Following their rescue, the victims were taken to the police clinic in Jalingo, the capital of Taraba State, for thorough examination and necessary medical treatment. Unfortunately, some of the victims suffered severe injuries during their ordeal, including one individual who had an eye plucked out by the kidnappers and another with a gunshot wound, currently receiving treatment at the hospital.

The Police Commissioner paraded the rescued victims during the press briefing, highlighting the success of the joint operation. Additionally, he presented 10 suspected kidnappers who were apprehended by police operatives while allegedly attempting to escape from the mountain.

In concluding the announcement, Commissioner Iloyanomon emphasized the commitment of the Taraba Command to strengthen collaboration with local hunters and vigilantes, aiming to enhance the safety of residents in the state.