Kidnapped Israeli national rescued in Taraba after fierce gun battle

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Kidnapped Israeli national rescued in Taraba after fierce gun battle

Security operatives in Taraba State have rescued an Israeli national, Gil Itamar, who was abducted by armed criminals in Atim Community along the Takum/Chanchangi Road.

The rescue operation, carried out by the Taraba State Police Command in collaboration with the military and local hunters, followed a fierce gun battle with the kidnappers, forcing them to abandon their captive and flee.

In a statement on Friday, the Public Relations Officer of the Taraba State Police Command, James Lashen, confirmed the successful rescue of the victim.

“On April 3, 2025, at about 10:30hrs, we received a distress call from one Alhaji Saidu, a staff of SCC company in Takum, that an Israeli national, Mr. Gil Itamar, was kidnapped by armed hoodlums at Atim Community along the Takum/Chanchangi road,” Lashen said.

Following the report, the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Takum mobilized his men alongside personnel from the 67 Police Mobile Force (PMF), military operatives, and local hunters. The team stormed the suspected hideout of the kidnappers and engaged them in a gunfight.

“Our operatives conducted an intense cordon search-and-rescue operation, which led to the successful rescue of the victim at Kofai Ahmadu. The hoodlums, after a fierce gun duel, were forced to retreat and flee the scene,” Lashen added.
Meanwhile, the Commissioner of Police in Taraba, Bretet Emmanuel, commended the security forces for their swift response and bravery.

“We will not relent in our efforts to rid the state of criminals. I urge all residents to cooperate with security agencies and report suspicious activities. Let it be known that Taraba will be made unbearable for criminals,” CP Emmanuel warned.