Troops Bust Car Snatching Syndicate in Jos, Neutralize Two Suspects
Troops of the Nigerian Army’s 3 Division and Operation SAFE HAVEN have dismantled a notorious car snatching syndicate operating in Plateau State, neutralizing two armed suspects and recovering weapons and stolen vehicle tools in a daring operation carried out on April 28, 2025.
According to a statement released by Major Samson Nantip Zhakom, Media Information Officer of Operation SAFE HAVEN, the incident unfolded during a routine patrol around the Federal Low-Cost Estate in Jos South Local Government Area.
Troops intercepted an ash-colored Opel Vectra with two male occupants at the Lalong Gate of the estate. Suspicious behavior from the driver, including an attempted detour, raised red flags for the soldiers.
“Upon sighting the troops, the driver tried to flee but was immediately halted,” the statement read.
“However, during questioning, the driver attempted to overrun a patrol motorcycle in a bid to escape. Troops responded with decisive force, neutralizing the driver on the spot.”
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The surviving suspect confessed to being part of a specialized car snatching syndicate. He admitted to arriving in Jos from Katsina State on April 27, 2025, for the purpose of stealing vehicles.
A search of the car uncovered an identity card belonging to a security agency—allegedly used to bypass security checkpoints—and a set of master keys commonly used to steal cars.
Following the confession, troops conducted a follow-up operation at the suspects’ hideout in Corner Shagari, Angwan Rogo area of Jos North LGA. During the raid, a locally fabricated pistol was discovered concealed in the ceiling. The suspect then volunteered to lead the soldiers to another accomplice’s hideout nearby.
However, during this operation, the suspect attempted to disarm a soldier in a desperate bid to escape.
He was swiftly neutralized by troops before he could pose further danger. The military is continuing follow-up operations in the area to apprehend other members of the criminal network. Operation SAFE HAVEN reaffirmed its commitment to ridding Plateau State of the in violent crime and restoring public safety.
“This operation underscores our resolve to clamp down on all forms of criminality and ensure Plateau communities remain safe,” Major Zhakom emphasized.
