Troops from the 3 Division and Operation SAFE HAVEN, as part of the ongoing Operation LAFIYAN JAMA’A, have successfully neutralized two kidnappers, arrested suspected gunrunners, and seized significant arms and ammunition across Plateau and Kaduna states.
In a statement issued on Thursday, Major Samson Zhakom, the Media Information Officer for Operation SAFE HAVEN (OPSH), detailed the operations. On March 12, 2025, troops launched offensive operations targeting criminal elements operating around Kuru and Turu in the Jos South Local Government Area (LGA) of Plateau State.
During the operation, the soldiers encountered a group of kidnappers/terrorists on high ground in Kuru, eliminating two of them who were found in possession of 18 rounds of 7.62mm (special) ammunition and nine rounds of 5.56x45mm ammunition.
In another successful operation, troops responded to credible intelligence indicating the presence of kidnappers holding victims in the Daffo District of Bokkos LGA, near Josho Village. Upon the troops’ arrival, the kidnappers fled, abandoning their captives.
Two young girls, Miss Nanbam Adamu (11) and Miss Dorcas Wantu, were rescued from the scene and safely returned to their families after debriefing. Follow-up operations are ongoing to apprehend the fleeing criminals.
In a parallel operation, troops set up snap checkpoints along the Bokkos-Bot-Mangu Road after receiving intelligence about the movement of arms and ammunition in the area.
The troops arrested a notorious 21-year-old gunrunner, identified as Sengi David, who was found in possession of an AK-47 magazine and 48 rounds of 7.62mm (special) ammunition. The suspect and the confiscated items are now in custody for further interrogation.
The same day, a major breakthrough was achieved in Kaduna State, where a 22-year-old wanted kidnapper, terrorist, and gunrunner, Blessed Paul, was apprehended. Paul, who had previously evaded capture by fleeing to Abuja, was lured back to Jema’a LGA in Garaje Community with the promise of selling an AK-47 rifle for ₦1,500,000.
Upon meeting with undercover troops posing as buyers, Paul was arrested and found with one AK-47 rifle, an AK-47 magazine, and two rounds of 7.62mm (special) ammunition. He is currently cooperating with security forces, providing valuable information to assist in the ongoing efforts to dismantle the broader criminal syndicate.
These operations underscore the continued success of Operation LAFIYAN JAMA’A in addressing the persistent security challenges in the region, with troops maintaining their commitment to neutralizing criminal activities and protecting innocent citizens.
