Troops of Operation SAFE HAVEN, under the recently launched Operation LAFIYAN JAMA’A, have achieved significant breakthroughs in their ongoing efforts to combat criminal activities in Southern Kaduna.
In a statement Media Information Officer, Operation SAFE HAVEN Major Samson Nantip Zhakom said on March 2, 2025, troops acting on intelligence launched a rescue operation at Boto Forest in Zangon Kataf Local Government Area (LGA) of Kaduna State. Upon encountering the kidnappers, the troops engaged them in a gun battle, overwhelming the criminals with superior firepower. As a result, the kidnappers abandoned their captives and fled.
The operation led to the successful rescue of five victims:
- Mr. Abdullahi Saleh (38 years old)
- Master Blessed Haruna (17 years old)
- Mrs. Mary Nuhu (32 years old)
- Mrs. Charity Nuhu (35 years old)
- Mr. Abubakar Wakili (25 years old)
Further pursuit led to the arrest of three suspected kidnappers:
- Mr. Abubakar Shehu (30 years old)
- Mr. Mohammed Sani (20 years old)
- Mr. Adamu Mohammed (25 years old)
Security forces recovered a fabricated revolver rifle, nine rounds of 7.62mm (Special) ammunition, two mobile phones, two machetes, 32 rustled cows, and a cash sum of ₦521,000, suspected to be ransom proceeds.
The rescued victims were debriefed and reunited with their families, while one individual who sustained machete injuries was taken to the hospital for medical attention. The arrested suspects are currently in custody and providing intelligence to aid further security operations.
Interception of a Notorious Gunrunner
On March 3, 2025, troops conducted another operation following credible intelligence about arms trafficking in the region. During a checkpoint search at Mallagun, Kaura LGA, security forces intercepted a blue Opel Vectra Saloon car carrying illegal firearms.
A search of the vehicle revealed a concealed fabricated revolver rifle hidden in a black bag belonging to Mr. Anthony Elisha, a 24-year-old resident of Sanga LGA. Upon questioning, the suspect admitted ownership of the weapon and claimed he was transporting it on behalf of a civil police personnel, intending to deliver it to a criminal contact in Rami Kura, Lere LGA.
The suspect remains in custody and is providing intelligence on his accomplices, including the police officer allegedly involved. Follow-up operations are underway to dismantle the criminal network.
Commitment to Regional Security
Operation SAFE HAVEN remains committed to ensuring security and stability in its Joint Operations Area. Authorities urge the public to support ongoing efforts by providing credible and timely information to help combat criminal activities.
