Army, operating under the multi-agency security task force Operation Safe Haven (OPSH), has neutralized two suspected bandits during a strategic military operation in Nemaledu community, Gimbi District of Wase Local Government Area, Plateau State. The operation, which took place earlier this week, was the result of actionable intelligence and precise coordination aimed at curbing rising insecurity in the region.
Major Samson Zhakom, the Media Officer for Operation Safe Haven, announced the development in a statement issued on Friday in Jos. He confirmed that the troops laid a successful ambush following a credible tip-off on the movement of criminal elements believed to be responsible for a series of violent attacks in the area. “Acting on a tip-off regarding the movement of bandits along Nemaledu community of Wase LGA, our troops laid a tactical ambush at a known crossing point,” said Major Zhakom. “During the engagement, the troops made contact with the armed suspects and neutralized two of them.”
According to him, the ambush was carefully planned and executed to intercept the bandits as they attempted to pass through a strategic corridor frequently used for illicit movement. Upon engagement, a brief gun battle ensued, during which the Army troops overpowered the suspects. In addition to neutralizing the two suspects, the troops recovered a locally fabricated AK-47 rifle from the scene. The recovery of the weapon underscores the persistent threat posed by armed groups operating in the region, and the importance of continued vigilance by both security forces and local residents.
Major Zhakom reiterated that Operation Safe Haven, which draws personnel from the Nigerian Army, Police, Civil Defence, and other paramilitary agencies, remains committed to flushing out criminal elements and ensuring long-term stability across Plateau State and its environs. “This operation is part of our larger strategy to sustain pressure on criminal groups, particularly in vulnerable rural communities,” Zhakom said. “We want the public to understand that our troops are working around the clock to secure lives and property. Their safety is our mission.”
He also emphasized the critical role that community collaboration plays in the success of military operations, urging citizens to maintain communication with security agencies by reporting suspicious movements and individuals. “The cooperation of the public is critical to the success of our operations,” he added. “We urge Plateau residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to security agencies. Together, we can defeat these threats.”
Army Neutralizes Two Suspected Bandits in Plateau State Operation
The Wase Local Government Area has witnessed a rise in banditry, armed robbery, and intercommunal violence in recent years. Communities like Nemaledu have often found themselves at the epicenter of insecurity, prompting the military to intensify its presence and operations in the area. Security analysts note that the Nigerian Army’s continued efforts in the region are necessary to contain growing security challenges in the Middle Belt, which is often affected by the convergence of ethnic tensions, farmer-herder conflicts, and organized criminal activities.
The latest success by the Army adds to a series of recent offensives across the state and neighboring areas, where military operations have led to the arrest or neutralization of dozens of suspects involved in kidnapping, cattle rustling, and arms smuggling. Residents of Nemaledu and surrounding communities have welcomed the Army’s intervention, expressing hope that such proactive operations will deter further attacks and restore peace to their communities. Some community leaders have called for sustained operations and increased patrols to ensure long-term security.
A traditional leader from the area, who spoke anonymously due to security concerns, praised the Army’s swift response and called for more frequent intelligence-sharing between locals and the military. “We appreciate the efforts of the Army and Operation Safe Haven. What we need now is consistent presence and communication. Our people are willing to help, but they need to feel safe doing so,” he said.
Meanwhile, Operation Safe Haven has assured citizens that it will not relent in its efforts and will continue to work closely with local authorities to identify and dismantle criminal hideouts across Plateau State. The Army also called on political, religious, and traditional leaders to support ongoing peace initiatives and assist in sensitizing the public on the importance of community engagement in security matters. As the fight against insecurity intensifies, the Nigerian Army, through Operation Safe Haven and other joint efforts, continues to demonstrate its resolve to restore law and order and protect vulnerable communities across Nigeria’s volatile regions.
Source- Punch