Troops of Operation HAKORIN DAMISA IV successfully neutralized suspected bandits, rescued kidnapped victims, and recovered a cache of arms and ammunition during several operations in Plateau State on July 26 and 25, 2023.

The operation commenced on July 26, 2023, when troops were conducting a mission in the Rugan/Basiru village of Barkin-Ladi Local Government Area. Suspected bandits opened fire on the troops, prompting a swift and decisive response. The fierce encounter forced the bandits to retreat, leaving behind significant evidence of their criminal activities.

Among the items recovered were 2 x AK 47 Rifles bearing Registration Numbers 07873 and B-32134, along with 15 rounds of 7.62 mm Special ammunition, 3 x locally fabricated guns, and a pair of military desert camouflage uniforms. Additionally, ten suspects were apprehended and are presently undergoing profiling to determine their involvement in criminal activities.

In a separate incident on the same day, troops thwarted an attempted attack on Mangun and Patlong villages in Mangu Local Government Area. The troops responded promptly, leading to the neutralization of several bandits, while others managed to escape with gunshot wounds.

On July 25, 2023, troops operating along the Janneret/Washina Changal and Gyambwas roads in Mangu Local Government Area encountered more suspected bandits. The criminals quickly fled upon spotting the approaching troops, leaving behind 3 x motorcycles and 1 x locally fabricated gun.

Furthermore, troops responded to a distress call at Rumfar Gwamna village on the same day, where they successfully rescued five kidnapped victims. The operation also resulted in the recovery of a Toyota Camry and a Sharon car, both of which were presumably used by the kidnappers.

The relentless efforts of Operation HAKORIN DAMISA IV continued to bear fruit during subsequent operations. At criminal hideouts in Unguwan Haruna, Kibam, and Dogon Daji forest, four more kidnapping victims were rescued, and two suspected kidnappers were apprehended.

Earlier, on July 22, 2023, troops responded to a distress call from Makabat village in Bokkos, leading to the capture of two miscreants and the recovery of two locally fabricated rifles.

In addition to their courageous anti-banditry efforts, the troops also worked to address incidents of cattle rustling and grazing on farmlands. A Combat Team operating in the Fan District of Barkin-Ladi Local Government Area successfully recovered 15 rustled cows. Meanwhile, 37 cows were detained for grazing on farmlands owned by locals in Shimlan and Barkin Ladi villages.

In a significant breakthrough, troops captured a notorious gunrunner responsible for trafficking arms and ammunition in the North West and North Central regions. The operation, conducted at Soi village in Gidan Akwati Gashish District, resulted in the recovery of 1 x AK 47 Rifle and its magazine.

Captain Oya James, the Media Information Officer for Operation SAFE HAVEN, commended the troops’ dedication and called on law-abiding citizens to continue providing credible and timely information to support prompt responses to security challenges.

Operation HAKORIN DAMISA IV remains committed to protecting communities and combating criminal elements in Plateau State, ensuring the safety and security of its residents.