The Nigerian Army and the Taraba State Police Command have clashed over the narrative surrounding the rescue of an Israeli national, Mr. Gil Itamar, kidnapped in Taraba State. The disagreement centers on the circumstances of Itamar’s abduction and the subsequent rescue operation, highlighting a potential breakdown in inter-agency communication and collaboration. The police publicly claimed responsibility for the successful rescue, asserting that Itamar was under military escort when abducted and that the police coordinated the rescue efforts. However, the Army vehemently refuted these claims, accusing the police of disseminating misleading information.
The Army’s account, presented by Captain Olubodunde Oni, acting Assistant Director of Army Public Relations, 6 Brigade, painted a different picture. According to the Army, Itamar was traveling alone, without any military escort, when kidnapped along the Takum-Chanchangi Road. The Army asserted that the rescue operation was initiated and led by the 93 Battalion, Nigerian Army, in collaboration with local stakeholders, and was intelligence-driven, utilizing information from community leaders and residents. The operation, according to the Army, culminated in Itamar’s release without any exchange of gunfire, contrasting with the police’s portrayal of the events.
This public disagreement between the Army and the police raises concerns about the accuracy of information disseminated to the public and the potential for such discrepancies to erode public trust in security agencies. The Army’s public rebuke of the police underscores the importance of verifying information before public release, especially in sensitive security matters. The incident also reveals potential friction between the two agencies, raising questions about the effectiveness of their joint operations. Clear communication and cooperation between security forces are essential for maintaining public confidence and effectively combating crime and insecurity.
Beyond the dispute over Itamar’s rescue, the Nigerian Army also reported successful operations against bandits in Taraba State. As part of Operation Lafiya Jamaa, an ongoing military campaign against armed groups, troops of 6 Brigade and Sector 3 Operation Whirl Stroke conducted a clearance operation in Karim Lamido Local Government Area. This operation resulted in the neutralization of three bandits, the destruction of several bandit camps, and the recovery of arms and ammunition, including motorcycles, an AK-47 magazine, and ammunition rounds.
The Army’s continued operations in the region demonstrate a commitment to addressing the security challenges posed by banditry and other criminal activities. The dismantling of over 70 criminal camps in the Dutsen Zaki and Achalle axis further illustrates the impact of sustained military pressure on these armed groups. The success of these operations is attributed to the troops’ tactical proficiency and the ongoing efforts to deny criminals safe havens within the state. The Army’s proactive approach aims to disrupt criminal networks, restore peace, and ensure the safety of residents in affected areas.
The Nigerian Army’s operations in Taraba State, while yielding positive results in combating banditry, are juxtaposed against the backdrop of the inter-agency conflict with the police over the Israeli national’s rescue. This incident highlights the need for improved communication and coordination between security agencies to present a unified front and ensure the accurate dissemination of information. The discord between the Army and the police could potentially undermine the overall security efforts and erode public trust. Moving forward, a focus on inter-agency collaboration and transparent communication will be crucial for effectively addressing security challenges and maintaining public confidence in the state.
