In a remarkable display of swift military intervention, troops of the 3 Division of the Nigerian Army and Operation SAFE HAVEN (OPSH) successfully rescued 16 kidnapped passengers along the Jos-Mangu road in Plateau State. The passengers, including six children, were abducted while traveling on the evening of April 13, 2025. According to Major Samson Nantip Zhakom, the Media Information Officer for Operation SAFE HAVEN, the rescue was triggered during Operation LAFIYAN JAMA’A, a military patrol aimed at combating insecurity in the region. How the Rescue Unfolded At approximately 9:00 PM local time, troops conducting patrols along Mararaban Kantoma in Mangu Local Government Area (LGA) came across an abandoned vehicle by the roadside. The scene immediately raised suspicions, prompting a swift search of the surrounding bushes. “Upon approaching the area, the troops were met with gunfire from the kidnappers. However, the soldiers responded with superior firepower, forcing the abductors to flee and abandon their captives,” Major Zhakom stated. The soldiers continued their combing of the area and eventually rescued all 16 abductees, which included six children. Some of the victims sustained minor injuries during the encounter and were administered first aid before being escorted to safety and allowed to continue their journey to Jos Metropolis. Ongoing Operations to Track the Criminals The military confirmed that search operations are ongoing to capture the fleeing kidnappers, who are believed to have sustained gunshot wounds during the exchange. The army continues to urge the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to relevant security agencies. This successful rescue effort reflects the Nigerian Army’s commitment to combating kidnapping and restoring peace in Plateau State and other volatile regions. Security Measures and Civilian Cooperation The Nigerian Army has been consistent in strengthening its presence in northern and central Nigeria through operations such as Operation SAFE HAVEN, which has proven effective in addressing threats like banditry, kidnapping, and communal clashes. Civilians are also encouraged to collaborate with security forces by providing timely and accurate information. According to a BBC report on Nigerian insecurity, community engagement remains one of the most crucial strategies in overcoming the increasing wave of violence in parts of the country. Related Posts You Might Like Conclusion The rescue of the 16 kidnapped passengers along the Jos-Mangu road is a powerful testimony to the bravery and efficiency of the Nigerian Army. As insecurity continues to plague parts of Nigeria, this successful operation not only restores hope but reinforces the need for continuous military presence and public cooperation. The public is reminded to stay informed, remain cautious, and support security efforts through timely intelligence sharing. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel
Troops from the Nigerian Army’s 3 Division and Operation Safe Haven have successfully apprehended two notorious kidnappers and terrorists in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area (LGA) of Plateau State. The arrest was the result of a well-planned sting operation following actionable intelligence reports. Operation Golden Peace Leads to Arrest in Plateau Counter-insurgency expert Zagazola Makama, known for his expertise in security matters across the Lake Chad region, disclosed this information via a post on his verified X handle on Wednesday. According to intelligence sources, the operation, codenamed Operation Golden Peace, took place on February 24 at approximately 2:20 p.m. in Lugere Sho, Barkin Ladi. This successful raid was carried out based on information extracted from a suspect who had been taken into custody on February 22. Key Suspects in Custody Further operations led to the capture of another high-profile kidnapper and terrorist in Kwok Village, also within Barkin Ladi LGA. The apprehended suspect is currently undergoing interrogation and has provided critical intelligence regarding previous criminal activities, including multiple kidnapping incidents in Plateau and Nasarawa States. Additionally, one of the arrested individuals confessed to sustaining gunshot injuries during a previous encounter with security forces. Ongoing Security Operations in Plateau The captured suspects have also disclosed vital information about their accomplices, including their locations and hideouts in Barkin Ladi LGA. Security operatives are actively conducting follow-up operations to dismantle the remaining members of the criminal syndicate. Nigerian Army Official Website This strategic crackdown underscores the military’s ongoing commitment to ensuring security in Plateau State and across Nigeria. Authorities continue to urge citizens to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to security agencies. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel
