Troops eliminate kidnappers, nab gunrunners in Kaduna, Plateau

Troops of 3 Division and Operation SAFE HAVEN (OPSH) have successfully carried out a series of operations against kidnappers and gunrunners in Plateau and Kaduna states.

According to a statement, the troops neutralized two kidnappers, arrested notorious gunrunners, and recovered arms and ammunition.

Some of the nabbed gunrunners

“On March 12, 2025, troops conducted an offensive operation in Jos South local government area of Plateau State, targeting kidnappers/terrorists in the Kuru and Turu areas.

The operation resulted in the neutralization of two kidnappers, who were found with 18 rounds of 7.62 mm (Special) and 9 rounds of 5.56 x 45 mm ammunition,” the statement read.

The troops also intercepted a notorious gunrunner, Mr. Sengi David, aged 21, who was in possession of one AK-47 magazine and 48 rounds of 7.62 mm (Special) ammunition.

The suspect and recovered items are currently in custody for investigation.

In another operation, a sting operation was conducted on March 11, 2025, which led to the arrest of a notorious kidnapper, terrorist, and gunrunner, Mr. Blessed Paul, aged 22.

The suspect had been on the wanted list of security agencies for kidnapping and gunrunning activities and had escaped to Abuja to evade arrest.

“We are committed to ensuring the security of lives and property in Plateau and Kaduna states.

“We urge the public to continue providing useful and credible information to aid our operations,” said Major Samson Nantip Zhakom, Media Information Officer, Operation SAFE HAVEN.

The troops also conducted a rescue operation on March 12, 2025, at the outskirts of Josho Village in Daffo District, Bokkos LGA of Plateau State, where they rescued two female victims, Miss Nanbam Adamu, aged 11, and Miss Dorcas Wantu.

The kidnappers abandoned their victims and fled upon sighting troops.

The successful operations demonstrate the commitment of the troops to ensuring the security of lives and property in Plateau and Kaduna states.

Operation Safe Haven

Operation Safe Haven is a military operation launched by the Nigerian government in 2010 to maintain peace and security in Plateau State and its surrounding areas.

The operation aims to address communal clashes, kidnappings, and other security challenges in the region.

It’s a multi-agency operation involving the Nigerian Army, Air Force, Police Force, and other security agencies.

The operation’s main goals are to maintain law and order, protect lives and property, prevent communal clashes and kidnappings, arrest and prosecute criminals, and collaborate with local communities to promote peace and security.

While Operation Safe Haven has been instrumental in restoring relative peace and stability to the region, it still faces challenges, including persistent communal clashes, kidnappings, and other security threats.

The operation has been studied extensively, with research highlighting the importance of people-oriented programs and policies in achieving its goals and objectives.

This includes optimizing its image and enhancing symmetrical understanding with local communities.

Despite the challenges, Operation Safe Haven remains a crucial component of Nigeria’s internal security operations, working to ensure peace and stability in the region.

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