The Taraba State Police Command, in partnership with the military and local hunters, has successfully rescued a foreign national who was kidnapped in the state.
The victim, Gil Itamar, an Israeli national and employee of SCC Company, was abducted by armed criminals on April 3, 2025, in the Atim Community along the Takum/Chanchangi Road in Taraba State. According to a press release from the Public Relations Officer of the Taraba State Police Command, James Lashen, the kidnapping was reported at around 10:30 a.m. on the same day.
The information came through a phone call from Alhaji Saidu, a staff member of SCC Company based in Takum, who informed the police that at approximately 9:15 a.m., armed criminals had taken Mr. Itamar.
In response, the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Takum mobilized his team, along with personnel from the 67 Police Mobile Force (PMF), military forces, and local hunters. A coordinated search-and-rescue operation was launched, culminating in a confrontation with the kidnappers. Following a fierce gun battle, the criminals were forced to flee, and the victim was successfully rescued at Kofai Ahmadu.
Gil Itamar is currently receiving medical attention at the SCC Company’s medical facility in Takum. Authorities are continuing their efforts to track down the fleeing criminals, with plans to bring them to justice.
The Commissioner of Police in Taraba, Bretet Emmanuel, praised the bravery and dedication of the officers involved in the operation. He assured the public that the police would continue to work tirelessly to ensure the safety and security of all residents in the state. CP Emmanuel also issued a warning to criminals, advising them to leave the state, as the police are determined to make Taraba State an uncomfortable place for their activities.
