Troops of the Nigerian Army’s 3 Division and Operation SAFE HAVEN have successfully neutralized a bandit and recovered arms during a coordinated intelligence-led mission in Plateau State. The operation, which took place in the early hours of June 3, 2025, was carried out along the Plateau-Taraba border, targeting criminal hideouts near Kampani Zurak in Wase Local Government Area (LGA).
Acting on credible intelligence about a planned attack on local communities, soldiers advanced to Dutsen Zaki High Ground, where they engaged the armed group. One bandit was eliminated during the firefight, while others fled the scene with injuries.
In a related breakthrough, the troops rescued 24-year-old Auwalu Isa, who had been abducted from Kampani Zurak. He has since been debriefed and reunited with his family. Follow-up operations are ongoing to apprehend the fleeing suspects.
Later that same day, at around 1:20 p.m., soldiers based on fresh intelligence launched another operation in Pandam Forest, Qua’an Pan LGA. The mission led to the discovery of a recently disturbed area believed to have been used to hide weapons. A search revealed one AK-47 rifle, a magazine, and 30 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition all believed to have been buried by fleeing bandits under pressure from Operation LAFIYAN JAMA’A.
The recovered arms are now in military custody for further investigation, and clearance operations are continuing in the area to uncover more hidden weapon caches.
Military authorities emphasized the importance of sustained security efforts in preventing attacks and dismantling criminal networks. Operation SAFE HAVEN reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding lives and restoring peace across Plateau and its environs.
