Troops of Operation Safe Haven (OPSH) have arrested 18 suspected kidnappers, bandits and gunrunners in Plateau and part of Kaduna States.
The Media Officer of OPSH, Maj. Samson Zhakom, disclosed this at a media briefing on Thursday in Jos.
Zhakom said the troops also rescued 18 victims kidnapped in a forest at the boundary communities between Plateau and Taraba States.
He added that the arrest followed an operation held between in the states between December 2024 and January 4.
“In continuation of efforts to ensure the security of lives and property across the joint operation area, our troops intensified offensive operations supported by robust non-kinetic engagements.
“Notably, the past two months witnessed intensive and offensive operations around the borders between Plateau and Taraba state, especially around Bangalala and Kinishi forests around Wase and Karim Lamido LGAs of Plateau and Taraba State.
“The operations led to the neutralisation of several bandits and destruction of their life support structures.
“The move mounted pressure on the criminals leading to the rescue of 18 kidnapped victims who have been reunited with their families after profiling and documentation by relevant agencies.
“Troops have also neutralised some bandits and arrested some suspects in some parts of Southern Kaduna,” the spokesman stated.