An Israeli national, Mr. Gil Itamar, has been rescued from kidnappers in Taraba State following a coordinated operation by the Nigeria Police Force, military personnel, and local hunters.
According to a statement released in Jalingo on Friday by the spokesperson of the Taraba State Police Command, James Leshen, the rescue operation was launched after Itamar was abducted by armed men in Atim Community, located along the Takum-Chanchangi road.
Itamar, an employee of SCC Company, was reportedly kidnapped around 9:15 AM while under the escort of military personnel. The incident was swiftly reported to security agencies by a colleague, Alhaji Saidu, prompting immediate action.
The Divisional Police Officer in Takum quickly mobilized a joint response team comprising police officers, members of the 67 PMF unit, military forces, and local hunters.
The team embarked on an intensive search-and-rescue operation, which led to a gun battle with the kidnappers.
The superior firepower of the security forces compelled the abductors to abandon their captive during the confrontation. Itamar was subsequently found and rescued at Kofai Ahmadu.
He is currently receiving medical care at the SCC Company’s medical facility in Takum.
Efforts are ongoing to track down and apprehend the fleeing kidnappers. The Commissioner of Police in Taraba State, Bretet Simon, praised the swift and decisive action of the security personnel and reiterated the command’s commitment to ensuring the safety and security of all residents and visitors in the state.
