Troops of Operation SAFE HAVEN Neutralize Bandits, Criminals, Make Several Arrests

In an operation from 9th to 16th October 2023 under Operation HAKORIN DAMISA IV, troops of Operation SAFE HAVEN (OPSH) in Nigeria have carried out various successful missions, including neutralizing bandits and armed robbers, arresting 59 suspects involved in crimes like kidnapping, armed robbery, cattle rustling, railway vandalism, gunrunning, and illegal mining. Additionally, they have successfully recovered arms, ammunitions, and illicit drugs.

On the 11th of October 2023, troops neutralized a suspected bandit named Saidu, also known as Director, who was in possession of 39 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, a mobile phone, a headset, and some money.

The suspect confessed to purchasing the ammunition from another individual, Usman, in Bisichi. In their response, troops mobilized to Usman’s residence, where they recovered one AK 47 rifle, 5 cartridges, one Baofeng radio with a charger, one woodland camouflage vest, and one black trouser.

On the same day, troops deployed at Qua’anpan Area Command encountered and neutralized one armed robber, while others fled with gunshot wounds during an armed robbery attack along Amingo-Lafia road in Qua’anpan local government area of Plateau State.

The operation resulted in the recovery of one AK 47 rifle, one AK 47 magazine, 2 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, one Techno mobile phone, and a pair of socks.

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On the 9th of October 2023, troops engaged bandits in a gun battle around Jimlari village while moving to Ardo Kola village. The bandits fled due to the troops’ superior firepower, with many sustaining gunshot wounds.

The troops further explored the area and rescued two kidnapped civilians, Musa Alhaji Bello and Dauda, who had been kidnapped by the bandits. During this operation, troops recovered various items, including one mobile phone, a torchlight, 36 empty cases, some drugs, 5 blankets, 2 cooking pots, 3 gallons, 2 plates, 9 mats, and other household items.

Similarly, on the 10th of October 2023, troops acting on credible information arrested a notorious kidnapper, Madu Abubakar, at Kwa village in Qua’anpan LGA. The suspect was arrested with 4 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition and one motorcycle. The arrest was linked to the recent kidnapping of an accountant with Union Bank in the Doemark general area.

In addition to these operations, several other arrests have been made, including the capture of suspected gunrunners, suspected kidnappers, and other criminal elements in various parts of the region.

The diligent efforts of Operation SAFE HAVEN are aimed at enhancing security and peace in the region by countering criminal activities and maintaining law and order.