Kidnapped woman rescued during N2.1m ransom exchange in Plateau

A kidnapped woman has been released unharmed in Wase Local Government Area of Plateau State following coordinated efforts involving troops and local community mediation.

Security sources said troops of Sector 2, Operation Enduring Peace, stationed at Kukawa checkpoint intercepted a speeding motorcycle rider on May 18, 2026, at about 1:33 p.m. after he attempted to enter the town under suspicious circumstances.

During interrogation, the rider identified himself as Mr Sulaiman Abbas from Mbat 1 village in Tafawa Balewa Local Government Area of Bauchi State and reported that his wife, Mrs Husna Abbas, was abducted from their home on May 4, 2026.

According to the sources, the kidnappers initially demanded a ransom of N2.1 million for her release.

Troops reportedly exploited the situation and directed the suspect to contact the kidnappers, who instructed him to proceed to Wanka village.

However, a joint rescue effort involving troops and vigilante members later met a community leader who requested to intervene in the matter.

The sources said the community leader engaged a suspected gang leader identified as Azuge, after which the abducted woman was released at about 3:10 p.m. without payment of ransom.

Security authorities described the development as a successful rescue achieved through a combination of military response and community engagement.