Troops of Operation SAFE HAVEN have neutralised a notorious kidnapper and recovered arms, ammunition, and over ₦13.7 million in ransom money during a successful operation in Kaduna State.
In a statement Media Information Officer Operation SAFE HAVEN Major Samson Nantip Zhakom said acting on credible intelligence, troops conducting Operation LAFIYAN JAMA’A mounted snap checkpoints along Wamba–Jos Road in Agameti, Sanga Local Government Area, on Wednesday, 9 July 2025. A Volkswagen vehicle with registration number JJN 336 YZ was intercepted, and two of its three occupants fled on sighting the troops.
Upon inspection, bullet holes and bloodstains were found on the vehicle. A suspect who remained in the car attempted to bribe the troops, but his offer was rejected. He was arrested and searched, leading to the recovery of:
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Two AK-47 rifles and magazines
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30 rounds of 7.62mm ammunition
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Three mobile phones
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One knife
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One football
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Assorted charms
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A torchlight
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Cash totalling ₦13,742,000
During interrogation, the suspect confessed to multiple kidnappings along the Jos–Makurdi Road and agreed to lead troops to the syndicate’s hideout. However, he attempted to disarm a soldier during the operation and was neutralised.
Follow-up operations are underway to apprehend fleeing members of the gang.
Operation SAFE HAVEN reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and dismantling criminal networks across the Joint Operations Area.
