Troops of 3 Division/Operation SAFE HAVEN Neutralize Kidnappers, Arrest Gunrunners in Kaduna and Plateau
In a series of successful operations, troops of the Nigerian Army’s 3 Division and Operation SAFE HAVEN (OPSH) have neutralized two kidnappers and apprehended notorious gunrunners in Kaduna and Plateau states as part of the ongoing Operation LAFIYAN JAMA’A.
On March 12, 2025, troops carried out offensive operations in Kuru and Turu, Jos South LGA, Plateau State, targeting criminal hideouts. During the raid, soldiers engaged armed kidnappers, killing two and recovering 18 rounds of 7.62mm (Special) and 9 rounds of 5.56x45mm ammunition.
In a separate operation, troops set up snap checkpoints along the Bokkos-Bot-Mangu road in Bokkos LGA following intelligence reports about illegal arms transportation. The operation led to the arrest of 21-year-old Sengi David from Kopal Village, Mangu LGA, who was caught with one AK-47 magazine and 48 rounds of 7.62mm (Special) ammunition. The suspect is currently in custody for further investigation.
Similarly, on March 11, 2025, troops conducted a sting operation in Garaje Community, Jema’a LGA, Kaduna State, leading to the arrest of a notorious kidnapper and gunrunner, 22-year-old Blessed Paul. The suspect, who had been evading security forces by hiding in Abuja, was lured into a trap under the pretense of selling an AK-47 rifle for ₦1.5 million. Upon his arrest, soldiers recovered one AK-47 rifle, one magazine, and two rounds of 7.62mm (Special) ammunition. He is currently making useful confessions to aid further crackdowns on his criminal network.
In another operation on March 12, 2025, troops acting on intelligence raided a kidnapper’s hideout near Josho Village, Daffo District, Bokkos LGA. The kidnappers fled upon sighting the soldiers, leaving behind two female hostages: 11-year-old Miss Nanbam Adamu and Miss Dorcas Wantu, both from Mbor Village, Mushere District, Bokkos LGA. The victims have been safely reunited with their families while troops continue operations to track down the fleeing kidnappers.
The Nigerian Army reaffirmed its commitment to eradicating criminal elements and urged citizens to provide credible intelligence to aid security operations.
