Troops rescue kidnap victims, nab suspected gunrunners in Plateau, Kaduna
Jos – Troops of 3 Division, Nigerian Army, Rukuba, and Operation Safe Haven (OpSH), Jos, Plateau State, have rescued two female children from kidnappers, neutralized two suspected criminals, and apprehended suspected gunrunners while recovering arms and ammunition in Plateau and Kaduna States.
The spokesman of OpSH, Major Samson Zhakom, disclosed that these operations were part of Operation LAFIYAN JAMA’A, aimed at clearing criminal elements hiding in Kuru and Turu, Jos South Local Government Area (LGA), Plateau State.
Zhakom explained: “On 12 March 2025, troops conducted offensive operations and engaged kidnappers/terrorists near the high grounds in Kuru, neutralizing two criminals in possession of 18 rounds of 7.62mm (Special) and 9 rounds of 5.56x45mm ammunition.”
He further stated that based on credible intelligence regarding arms and ammunition movement, troops set up snap checkpoints along the Bokkos-Bot-Mangu road, Bokkos LGA, Plateau State.
“During the operation, troops intercepted a notorious gunrunner, a 21-year-old male from Kopal Village in Panyam District, Mangu LGA, Plateau State. He was found in possession of one AK-47 magazine and 48 rounds of 7.62mm (Special) ammunition. The suspect and recovered items are in custody for investigation.”
Additionally, troops conducted a rescue operation on the outskirts of Josho Village, Daffo District, Bokkos LGA, Plateau State, following intelligence reports about kidnappers holding victims in the area.
“On sighting troops, the kidnappers abandoned their victims and fled. A search of their hideout led to the rescue of two female victims: Miss Nanbam Adamu (11 years old) and Miss Dorcas Wantu, both from Mbor Village, Mushere District, Bokkos LGA. The victims were debriefed and reunited with their families. Meanwhile, troops are conducting follow-up operations to apprehend the fleeing kidnappers.”
In a separate operation, on 11 March 2025, troops conducted a sting operation in Garaje Community, Jema’a LGA, Kaduna State, to arrest a wanted kidnapper, terrorist, and gunrunner.
“The suspect had been on security agencies’ wanted list but had fled to the FCT, Abuja, to evade arrest. He was lured with an offer to sell an AK-47 rifle for ₦1.5 million. Believing he was dealing with buyers, he agreed to meet at a designated location in Garaje Community, where troops apprehended him.”
