Troops under Operation Safe Haven (OPSH) have rescued 16 individuals abducted along the Jos–Mangu highway in Plateau State, showcasing ongoing military efforts to secure volatile regions.
The rescue mission, which took place on Sunday, began when troops operating under Lafiyan Jama’a spotted a suspiciously abandoned vehicle at Mararaban Kantoma in Mangu LGA.
Suspecting foul play, they moved swiftly into the surrounding bush in search of the vehicle’s occupants, who were believed to have been kidnapped.
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Upon encountering the troops, the abductors opened fire, but the soldiers returned fire with superior force, forcing the criminals to abandon their captives and flee into the night.
Six children were among the rescued victims. After the confrontation, the troops conducted a sweep of the area to ensure no further threats remained.
Some of the victims suffered minor injuries during the incident, but they received immediate first aid from the soldiers before being escorted safely to continue their journey to Jos.
Major Zhakom, spokesperson for Operation Safe Haven, confirmed the operation in a statement on Monday, adding that efforts are ongoing to track down the fleeing kidnappers, some of whom are believed to have sustained gunshot wounds.
“Troops exploited the general area and rescued all 16 abducted passengers which included 6 children. Troops administered first aid to some of the rescued victims who sustained minor injuries during the incident. Thereafter, troops escorted the victims to safety to continue their journey to Jos Metropolis.”
The military remains on high alert in Plateau State, as security forces intensify surveillance and patrols to combat the growing threat of kidnapping along key highways.
