IN a remarkable display of courage and quick thinking, Nigerian Army Captain J.O. Abalaka (N/15198) has freed himself and other abductees from a kidnap gang in Kogi State.
Captain Abalaka was en route from Port Harcourt’s 29 Battalion to his new assignment at the operational headquarters of the Maiduguri Command in Borno State when he was abducted by kidnappers along the Ekpoma/Okene/Lokoja Road.
Driving his Toyota Corolla, with his dog as a companion, the officer was forcibly taken by armed men, according to a military signal obtained by SaharaReporters.
The kidnapping occurred last week, and other travellers were also captured during the incident.
Demonstrating exceptional bravery, Captain Abalaka managed to overpower one of the kidnappers, seizing their AK-47.
He then engaged the remaining gang members, successfully freeing himself, his dog, and the other hostages.
The military signal indicated that the officer recovered a locally-made Beretta pistol, a magazine, and five 9mm bullets from the kidnappers.
These items were later handed over to the appropriate authorities for further action.
The official military communication stated: “At approximately 15:30 hours, Captain J.O. Abalaka while travelling from 29 Battalion in Port Harcourt to report to his new unit at the Maiduguri Command, was kidnapped by unknown gunmen along the Ekpoma-Okene-Lokoja road.
“Driving his Toyota Corolla with registration number LSR 22 AJ and accompanied by his dog, he managed to disarm one of the kidnappers and engage the others, successfully rescuing himself, his dog, and the other abducted victims.”
“Recovered weapons and ammunition have been submitted for further investigation. Captain Abalaka’s actions have been widely praised as an exemplary act of bravery and resourcefulness in the face of danger”.
Source: SaharaReporters
Eighteen-Eleven Media