Troops of the 3 Division of the Nigerian Army and Operation SAFE HAVEN (OPSH) have rescued 16 kidnapped passengers, including six children, following a swift response to a suspected abduction incident along the Jos–Mangu road in Plateau State.
According to a statement released by Samson Nantip Zhakom, Media Information Officer of Operation SAFE HAVEN, the rescue mission was carried out around 9 pm on Sunday, April 13, when troops on patrol under Operation LAFIYAN JAMA’A discovered an abandoned vehicle near Mararaban Kantoma in Mangu Local Government Area.
The troops launched a search operation in nearby bushes where they encountered the kidnappers.
According to the statement, a gun battle ensued, but the criminals were overwhelmed by the soldiers’ superior firepower and forced to flee, leaving behind their captives.
“All 16 abducted passengers were rescued unharmed, although a few sustained minor injuries. Troops administered first aid on site and later escorted the victims safely to Jos Metropolis to continue their journey”, the statement read.
The military said that it has since intensified efforts to track down the fleeing kidnappers, some of whom are believed to have sustained gunshot wounds during the exchange.
Operation SAFE HAVEN reiterated its commitment to safeguarding lives and property in Plateau and surrounding states, assuring the public that troops remain vigilant and determined to flush out criminal elements in the region.
