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In a swift military response, troops from the Nigerian Army’s 3 Division and Operation SAFE HAVEN (OPSH) successfully rescued 16 passengers who had been kidnapped along the Jos–Mangu highway in Plateau State on April 13, 2025.
The operation was triggered around 9 p.m. when soldiers on routine patrol under Operation LAFIYAN JAMA’A came across an abandoned vehicle near Mararaban Kantoma in Mangu Local Government Area.
Suspecting foul play, the soldiers launched a search of the surrounding area.
Upon encountering the kidnappers in the bush, the armed men opened fire.
However, the soldiers returned fire with greater intensity, forcing the criminals to retreat and leave the hostages behind. Among those rescued were six children.
“The troops showed bravery and quick response, which led to the safe recovery of all 16 victims,” a military spokesperson stated.
“Some passengers sustained minor injuries and were given first aid before being escorted to safety.”
Military personnel remain in pursuit of the kidnappers, some of whom are believed to have been injured during the gunfight.
OPSH reaffirmed its dedication to safeguarding communities and ensuring that criminal elements have no space to operate within its jurisdiction.