Army disputes police claim over abduction of Israeli National
The Nigerian Army has denied claims by the Taraba State Police Command that the rescued Israeli national was under military escort when he was abducted.
Itamar, an Israeli national and staff member of SCC Company, was abducted on April 3 along the Takum–Chanchangi Road in Atim Community, Takum Local Government Area of Taraba State.
In a statement released by Captain Olubodunde Oni, Acting Assistant Director of Army Public Relations, 6 Brigade Nigerian Army/Sector 3 Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS), the Army refuted claims made by the Taraba State Police Command suggesting that Mr. Itamar was under military escort at the time of his abduction.
“The victim was alone in his vehicle, without a military escort or driver, when the incident occurred,” Oni clarified.
Oni also emphasised that the successful rescue operation was initiated and led by the Commanding Officer of 93 Battalion, Nigerian Army, Takum.
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Described as intelligence-driven, Oni said the operation involved coordination with local community leaders in Kofai Ahmadu, Apako, and Chanchangi. Notably, no weapons were discharged during the mission.
“Instead, the Army exerted strategic pressure on local village heads and youth leaders, leading to valuable information that resulted in Mr. Itamar’s release,” he said.
The Army expressed appreciation for inter-agency collaboration but urged the Taraba State Police Command to ensure accuracy in future public communications to avoid misleading the public and undermining the efforts of security forces.
“6 Brigade Nigerian Army/Sector 3 OPWS remains committed to the safety and security of all residents and visitors in Taraba State,” Oni said.
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