Troops of Operation Safe Haven have successfully foiled a planned attack by suspected bandits in Plateau State, arresting one armed suspect who was lying in wait to ambush unsuspecting commuters in the Gashish District of Barkin Ladi Local Government Area.
The suspect, believed to be part of a larger criminal network operating within the volatile region, was apprehended on Sunday night, July 6, 2025, along the Kafi Abu-Rakwok road during a routine night patrol by the troops under 3 Division of the Nigerian Army.
Spokesperson for Operation Safe Haven, Major Samson Zhakom, confirmed the development in a statement issued on Monday. He disclosed that the suspect was found in an ambush position, raising concerns of a premeditated attack on innocent travellers along the route.
Upon his arrest, troops recovered a fabricated AK-47 rifle, an AK-47 magazine, and 30 rounds of 7.62mm (Special) ammunition. The weapons, along with the suspect, have since been taken into military custody for further investigation and appropriate action.
According to Major Zhakom, “On 6 July 2025, troops of 3 Division/Operation SAFE HAVEN on night patrol intercepted a suspected militia member in Gashish District, Barkin Ladi LGA, while he was positioned for a potential attack on unsuspecting commuters. The prompt intervention of the troops prevented what could have been a deadly ambush.”
He added that the operation was part of an intensified effort to clamp down on the unlawful possession and use of firearms by non-state actors in the region. He noted that follow-up operations are already underway to track down other members of the suspected criminal syndicate.
Zhakom urged residents to remain vigilant and continue to support security forces by providing credible, timely intelligence to aid in sustaining the gains recorded so far.
“The menace of illegal arms possession remains a serious threat to peace and security in Plateau and other parts of the country. Our troops are committed to neutralising this threat and restoring safety across the Joint Operations Area,” he stated.
Barkin Ladi and its surrounding districts have witnessed sporadic violence in recent years, often linked to communal tensions and criminal infiltration. Security agencies are, therefore, maintaining a heightened presence in the area to forestall any resurgence of attacks and ensure the protection of lives and property.
