Troops of Operation ENDURING PEACE (OPEP) successfully rescued retired Colonel Ajanaku from kidnappers in Plateau State on Monday, after a intense day-long pursuit that prevented a massive ransom payment.
The retired senior officer was abducted from his residence on Rukuba Road, Bassa Local Government Area, in the early hours of January 5th. Military sources confirm that upon receiving the distress call, troops from Sectors 1 and 3 immediately mobilized, tracking the kidnappers through a Wildlife Park area.
The joint operation, which included the Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA) Tracking Team and local vigilantes, combed rocky terrains and caves in a relentless search. Pressure mounted when the kidnappers, having identified the military pursuit, contacted the Colonel’s wife and demanded a ₦200 million ransom. They threatened to kill their victim if search operations continued.
“Having observed the overwhelming presence and pressure from pursuing troops, the kidnappers issued threats to kill the victim if search operations were not halted,” a statement from the operation detailed.
In a tactical shift, the troops transitioned to covert operations. This move proved successful, leading to the Colonel’s rescue at approximately 5:30 PM on the outskirts of the Rafiki Axis in Bassa LGA. Critically, no ransom was paid to secure his freedom.
Colonel Ajanaku has been taken to the OPEP Medical Centre for examination and is reported in stable condition. He is expected to provide crucial intelligence for follow-up operations aimed at dismantling the criminal network.
“The Nigerian Army, through Operation ENDURING PEACE, reaffirms its unwavering commitment to safeguarding lives and property and will continue to deny criminal elements freedom of action,” the statement concluded.
As of Tuesday, aggressive combing operations continue in surrounding forests to apprehend the fleeing kidnappers.
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