Troops of Operation Safe Haven have killed three bandits during a military operation in Wase Local Government Area of Plateau State.
The operation, according to the military, was launched following credible intelligence that revealed the location of criminal hideouts near Pinau Village.
Major Samson Zhakom, spokesperson for the military task force, confirmed the incident in a statement issued on Saturday, June 1, 2025.
The statement reads, “In the early hours of 31 May 2025, troops of 3 Division/Operation SAFE HAVEN acting on credible intelligence conducted offensive operations at hideouts belonging to criminal elements along the fringes of Pinau Village in Wase Local Government Area (LGA) of Plateau State.”
He added that the troops encountered the criminals who had been terrorising residents in the area, especially along the Pinau – Gimbi road.
“During the operation, troops made contact with criminal elements terrorising the general area, including Pinau – Gimbi road.”
The soldiers engaged the bandits in a fierce gun battle, eventually overpowering them with superior firepower.
“In an exchange of fire, troops overwhelmed the criminals with superior firepower and neutralised three of the bandits while others fled with gunshot wounds as indicated by the blood stains along their withdrawal routes.”
The military recovered one AK-47 rifle and a magazine from the scene, which are currently in their custody for further investigation.
“Troops exploited the general area and recovered one AK-47 rifle and one AK-47 magazine.”
Zhakom stated that follow-up operations are ongoing to track down the fleeing bandits and avert any possible retaliatory attack.
He further said, “Troops of 3 Division/Operation SAFE HAVEN will consolidate on this success, with a view to strengthening their operational capability for more robust combat operations in dealing decisively with criminals in the Joint Operations Area.”
The military assured the public of its commitment to maintaining peace and security across Plateau State and surrounding regions.
