Troops Of 3 Division Operation Safe Haven Neutralises Bandit, Recovers Weapon and Ammunition In Pandem Forest, Plateau State

Troops Of 3 Division Operation Safe Haven Neutralises Bandit, Recovers Weapon and Ammunition In Pandem Forest, Plateau State

In the early hours of 3 June 2025, troops of 3 Division/Operation SAFE HAVEN conducted an intelligence-based operation along the borders between Plateau and Taraba States. The operation was based on a tip-off about plans by bandits to attack communities in Kampani Zurak in Wase Local Government Area (LGA) of Plateau State. During the operation, troops made contact with the criminals at their concentration area at Dutsen Zaki High Ground in Wase LGA of Plateau State. In an exchange of fire, troops neutralised one of the bandits while others fled with gunshot wounds.

Additionally, troops rescued a kidnapped victim, Mr Auwalu Isa aged 24 years who was abducted from Kampani Zurak in Wase LGA of Plateau State. The rescued victim has been debriefed and reunited with his family. Troops are currently conducting follow-up operations to intercept the fleeing bandits.

Also, today at approximately 1:20pm, troops of 3 Division/Operation SAFE HAVEN conducted operations based on credible intelligence that some bandits have concealed their weapons in Pandam Forest in Qua’an Pan Local Government Area (LGA) of Plateau State due to pressure from troops conducting the ongoing Operation LAFIYAN JAMA’A. During the operation, troops discovered a freshly dug area which was immediately excavated. In the process, troops recovered one AK-47 rifle, one AK-47 magazine and 30 rounds of 7.62 mm (Special) carefully concealed by the bandits.

The recovered weapon and ammunition are in the custody of troops for further action. Meanwhile, troops are sustaining operations in the area for possible recovery of other arms and ammunition concealed by the criminals.

These operational achievements emphasize the need to consistently engage criminal elements in fierce combat, and retrieve arms/ammunition from unauthorized individuals. Operation SAFE HAVEN will continue to champion these moves for the protection of human lives and property within its Joint Operations Area.