Troops Arrest Two Suspected Kidnappers, Recover Ammunition in Plateau

Troops of Operation Safe Haven (OPSH) and the 3 Division of the Nigerian Army have arrested two suspected kidnappers and recovered a cache of ammunition in Plateau State.

The Media Officer of OPSH, Maj. Samson Zhakom, disclosed this during a press conference on Wednesday in Jos, the Plateau State capital.

According to Zhakom, the suspects were apprehended during a special operation codenamed Operation Golden Peace conducted in Bassa Local Government Area on December 10.

“Troops of 3 Division and OPSH carried out intelligence-based raids at identified criminal hideouts in the Rafiki general area of Bassa LGA, capturing notorious kidnap kingpins and recovering a cache of ammunition,” he said.

Zhakom explained that the operation aligns with the directives of the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen.

Olufemi Oloyede, aimed at ensuring a secure harvest season and peaceful yuletide celebrations across the region.

He identified the suspects as Mohammed Musa, also known as Mamman, and his collaborator, Mallam Alhassan Samaila.

“A thorough search of the hideout of the kidnap kingpin led to the recovery of 439 rounds of 7.62 mm (Special) ammunition concealed in a four-liter engine oil gallon,” Zhakom stated.

Preliminary investigations revealed that the suspects disguised themselves as transporters to supply ammunition to bandits operating in Plateau, Kaduna, and Zamfara States.

“The suspects are currently making useful confessions, and follow-on operations are underway to apprehend other members of the criminal syndicate and recover additional arms and ammunition,” he added.

Zhakom assured residents of the army’s commitment to ensuring the security of lives and property across the state, urging citizens to report any suspicious activities to security agencies.

This development comes as security forces intensify efforts to curb criminal activities and provide a safe environment during the festive season.