Troops of 3 Division of the Nigerian Army and Operation SAFE HAVEN (OPSH) have rescued 16 kidnapped passengers—including six children—along the Jos–Mangu road in Plateau State.
According to a statement issued by Major Samson Nantip Zhakom, Media Information Officer for Operation SAFE HAVEN, the rescue operation was launched on the night of April 13, 2025, after troops conducting Operation LAFIYAN JAMA’A discovered an abandoned vehicle at Mararaban Kantoma in Mangu Local Government Area.
Suspecting foul play, the troops combed nearby bushes in search of the vehicle’s occupants believed to have been abducted. Upon encountering the kidnappers, the troops came under fire but responded with superior firepower, forcing the criminals to flee and abandon their victims.
“All 16 kidnapped passengers, including six children, were rescued during the operation,” the statement confirmed. “Some of the victims sustained minor injuries and were given first aid by the troops before being escorted safely to continue their journey to Jos Metropolis.”
The statement added that troops are currently pursuing the fleeing kidnappers, some of whom are believed to have sustained gunshot wounds during the confrontation.
Operation SAFE HAVEN reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and property across its Joint Operations Area, assuring the public that troops remain vigilant and determined to deny criminal elements freedom of action.
 have rescued 16 kidnapped passengers—including six children—along the Jos–Mangu road in Plateau State.){kind=link}