Troops of 3 Division/Operation SAFE HAVEN Arrest Kidnap Kingpins, Recover Ammunition Cache in Plateau
By: Zagazola Makama
Troops of 3 Division/Operation SAFE HAVEN have apprehended key kidnap kingpins and recovered a significant ammunition cache during a targeted raid in the Rafiki General Area of Bassa Local Government Area, Plateau State.
The operation, conducted on Dec. 10, 2024, was part of the ongoing Operation Golden Peace, aimed at ensuring security during the harvest season and the upcoming festive period. Acting on intelligence under the directive of the Chief of Army Staff, Lt Gen OO Oluyede, the troops uncovered 439 rounds of 7.62mm (Special) ammunition hidden in a 4-liter engine oil container.
According to Major Samson Nantip Zhakom, Military Information Officer for Operation SAFE HAVEN, preliminary investigations revealed that the suspects posed as transporters, discreetly delivering ammunition to bandits operating in Plateau, Kaduna, and Zamfara States.
“The arrested suspects are cooperating with authorities and have provided valuable information. Follow-up operations are ongoing to apprehend other syndicate members and recover additional weapons and ammunition,” Zhakom said.
The operation highlights the commitment of 3 Division/Operation SAFE HAVEN to securing lives and property in the Joint Operations Area.
The success aligns with the objectives of Operation Golden Peace and benefits from the recent deployment of combat enablers by the Chief of Defence Staff and Chief of Army Staff to enhance operational effectiveness in Plateau State.
