Troops of the 3 Division/Operation Safe Haven (OPSH) have foiled an attempted attack by bandits and rescued a kidnapped victim during an intelligence-based operation along the Plateau-Taraba border in the early hours of 3 June 2025.

The operation followed a tip-off on plans by bandits to strike communities in Kampani Zurak, Wase Local Government Area (LGA) of Plateau State.

During the raid, the troops engaged the criminals at their hideout on Dutsen Zaki High Ground in Wase LGA. One bandit was neutralised in a gun duel, while others escaped with gunshot wounds.

According to a statement issued on Wednesday by the Media Information Officer of OPSH, Major Samson Zhakom, the troops successfully rescued 24-year-old Mr. Auwalu Isa, who had been abducted from Kampani Zurak.

“The rescued victim has been debriefed and reunited with his family. Troops are currently conducting follow-up operations to intercept the fleeing bandits,” Zhakom stated.

In a separate operation carried out around 1:20 p.m. the same day, troops uncovered and recovered arms concealed by fleeing bandits in Pandam Forest, Qua’an Pan LGA of Plateau State.

“Troops of 3 Division/Operation Safe Haven conducted operations based on credible intelligence that some bandits have concealed their weapons in Pandam Forest… due to pressure from troops conducting the ongoing Operation LAFIYAN JAMA’A,” the statement read.

“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.”

Major Zhakom said the recovered arms and ammunition are in the custody of the troops for further action, adding that operations are ongoing in the area to uncover additional weapons.

“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,” the statement added.