Godsent Ogbebor
Troops Rescue 16 from Plateau Kidnap Attempt
Sixteen kidnapped passengers have been rescued by troops of the 3 Division of the Nigerian Army and Operation Safe Haven after they were abducted along the Jos-Mangu road in Plateau State.
The rescue took place on Sunday night after troops found an abandoned vehicle at Mararaban Kantoma in Mangu Local Government Area. Acting swiftly, the soldiers launched a search operation in the surrounding bushes and discovered the kidnappers holding the passengers.
Major Samson Zhakom, spokesman for Operation Safe Haven, confirmed the rescue in a statement on Monday.
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He said the armed kidnappers opened fire when they spotted the troops, but the soldiers overpowered them, forcing the criminals to flee and abandon their captives.
All 16 victims, including six children, were freed unharmed, though a few sustained minor injuries. Troops gave them first aid before escorting them safely to continue their journey to Jos.
Search efforts are ongoing to track down the fleeing suspects, some of whom are believed to have been injured in the gunfire exchange.
The military said it remains committed to ensuring the safety of residents across Plateau and surrounding areas, warning that criminals will continue to face decisive action.
