Troops of the 3 Division, Nigerian Army, in collaboration with Operation SAFE HAVEN (OPSH), have successfully rescued 16 kidnapped passengers along the Jos–Mangu road in Plateau State.
According to the Media Information Officer for OPSH, Major Samson Zhakom, the rescue mission began around 9 pm on April 13, 2025, when troops on Operation LAFIYAN JAMA’A discovered an abandoned vehicle by the roadside at Mararaban Kantoma in Mangu Local Government Area. The vehicle was suspected of belonging to abducted individuals.
Acting swiftly, the troops searched the surrounding bushes. On sighting the soldiers, the kidnappers opened fire but were overpowered by the troops’ superior firepower. The criminals fled the scene, abandoning the victims.
All 16 abducted passengers, including six children, were rescued unharmed.
Troops administered first aid to some of the victims who sustained minor injuries and then escorted them safely to Jos Metropolis to continue their journey.
Efforts are ongoing to track down the fleeing kidnappers, some of whom may have sustained gunshot wounds during the encounter.
OPSH reaffirmed its commitment to securing lives and property in the Joint Operations Area, emphasising that its troops remain vigilant and ready to disrupt criminal activities.
Olusola Akintonde
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