Troops of Operation SAFE HAVEN in Kaduna State have achieved significant success in their offensive against criminal elements, as they neutralized three bandits, seized arms, and rescued three kidnap victims. The operation, codenamed “HAKORIN DAMISA IV,” was carried out by the Nigerian Army’s One Division.
Troops neutralized a suspected bandit named Saidu, also known as Director, who attempted to escape after being arrested in possession of 39 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, a mobile phone, a headset, and some money.
The troops engaged bandits in a gun duel around Jimlari village, rescuing two kidnapped civilians named Musa Alhaji Bello and Dauda.
During a clearance operation in Kabode village of Chikun Local Government Area, troops made contact with marauding bandits and engaged them in a firefight. As a result, three bandits were neutralized, and one AK-47 rifle loaded with ammunition, along with other items, was recovered.
In conjunction with personnel from the Nigeria Police and local hunters, troops rescued 11 female farmers who were kidnapped while working on their farmlands at Riruwa village in Toro Local Government Area.
In Danbaba Village, Igabi Local Government Area, 10 kidnap victims were rescued after the bandits abandoned them upon sighting the troops, who had laid an ambush for them.
Seizure of Arms and Arrests in Kaduna:
Troops arrested a notorious kidnapper named Madu Abubakar, who was linked to the recent kidnapping of a Union Bank Accountant.
Two suspected kidnappers, Mamu Dauda and Mohammed Zakari, who had been on the wanted list, were arrested by the OPSH tactical team.
A suspected gunrunner named Mohammed Kabiru was arrested, and one pistol and three cartridges were recovered.
Two suspected drug peddlers, Joseph Isaac and Henry Pam, were arrested with substances suspected to be cannabis sativa and other illicit drugs.
Troops intercepted a truck loaded with railway materials suspected to have been vandalized and arrested two suspects who were occupants of the truck.
The success of the operation was attributed to credible intelligence and the effectiveness of the troops in combatting criminal activities. The General Officer Commanding, 1 Division, commended the troops for their efforts and urged communities to continue providing timely intelligence to support ongoing operations.