By Patrick Obia
The 13 Brigade of the Nigerian Army has confirmed the rescue of the abducted Commissioner for Women Affairs in Cross River State, Mr. Gertrude Njar in Calabar.
13 Brigade Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, Calabar, Captain Dorcas Oluwatope Aluko said troops of the Brigade deployed for Operation Akpakwu successfully rescued the Commissioner who was whisked away on February 1, 2023, while driving home at Calabar South LGA.
Captain Dorcas said the troops acting on actionable intelligence on the victim’s whereabouts, laid a tacit ambush for the kidnappers around Peter Effiong Creek, Messembe, Jebs where the gallant Soldier tactically sprung an ambush to take the kidnappers by surprise while in search of the victim.
She disclosed that in the ensuing melee, the criminals abandoned the victim and fled into the creeks.
The spokesperson added: “Troops are, however, on the trail of the fleeing criminals. Meanwhile, the victim is currently receiving medical treatment, after which she will be discharged.
“The Commander, 13 Brigade of the Nigerian Army commends troops for their gallantry and urges them to sustain the tempo against all criminal elements in the Brigade’s area of responsibility.”
The Brigade encouraged members of the public to continue to provide timely and accurate information on criminal activities within their vicinity.
Meanwhile, sources say about N2.7 million was paid for Gertrude’s release but CrossRiverWatch is yet to confirm that at the time of this report.