Troops Neutralize Bandit, Rescue Captive, Recover Weapons in Plateau
Troops of 3 Division and Operation SAFE HAVEN (OPSH) have successfully neutralized a suspected bandit, rescued a kidnap victim, and recovered arms and ammunition in a series of coordinated operations along the border areas of Plateau and Taraba States.
According to a press statement signed by Major Samson Nantip Zhakom, the Media Information Officer of Operation SAFE HAVEN, the operations were based on credible intelligence indicating that bandits were planning an attack on communities in Kampani Zurak, Wase Local Government Area (LGA) of Plateau State.
Troops launched an intelligence-driven mission in the early hours of Tuesday, June 3, 2025, and encountered the armed criminals at their hideout in Dutsen Zaki High Ground, Wase LGA. In the ensuing exchange of fire, one bandit was neutralized, while others escaped with gunshot wounds.
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In the same operation, troops rescued a 24-year-old kidnap victim, Mr. Auwalu Isa, who had been abducted from Kampani Zurak. The victim has since been debriefed and reunited with his family.
Later the same day, at about 1:20 p.m., another operation was conducted in Pandam Forest, Qua’an Pan LGA, following intelligence reports that bandits had hidden weapons in the area to evade ongoing military pressure under Operation LAFIYAN JAMA’A. During the sweep, troops discovered a freshly dug area and uncovered an AK-47 rifle, a magazine, and 30 rounds of 7.62mm (Special) ammunition buried at the site.
The recovered arms and ammunition are currently in the custody of the troops for further action, while follow-up operations are ongoing to track down fleeing criminals and uncover more weapons.
“These operational achievements emphasize the need to consistently engage criminal elements in fierce combat and retrieve arms and ammunition from unauthorized individuals,” Major Zhakom noted, reaffirming OPSH’s commitment to protecting lives and property within its Joint Operations Area.
By PRNigeria
