Troops of 3 Division/Operation Safe Haven have killed two bandits and recovered arms and ammunition during an operation in Plateau State.
The operation was conducted on Wednesday after troops received credible intelligence about a planned attack by bandits on communities in Nteng, Quan’an Pan Local Government Area.
In a statement on Thursday, the spokesman for the military Special Taskforce, Major Samson Zhakom, confirmed the incident, stating that troops had laid an ambush for the bandits and engaged them in a gun duel.
He said two of the bandits were neutralised during the exchange, while others escaped with possible gunshot wounds, as blood trails were discovered along their escape routes.
Zhakom further revealed that troops recovered weapons and ammunitions during the operation, which are now in their custody for further investigation. He added that efforts are ongoing to track and intercept the fleeing bandits.
The statement read, “Following credible intelligence on plans by bandits to attack communities at Nteng in Qua’an Pan Local Government Area of Plateau State, troops of 3 Division/Operation SAFE HAVEN laid ambush against the criminals, and made contact with them while approaching Nteng community.
“During the encounter accompanied by exchange of gunfire on Wednesday, July 16, 2025, troops neutralised two bandits while others fled with possible gunshot wounds as indicated by the blood stains along their withdrawal routes. “Upon exploitation of the area, troops recovered weapons and ammunition.
“The recovered weapons and ammunition are in the custody of troops for further action. Meanwhile, troops are on the trail of the fleeing criminals for interception.
“This latest operational success remains a testament to troops unrelenting fight against armed militias and other criminal elements within Operation SAFE HAVEN Joint Operations Area. The success will be sustained through intense fighting spirit of troops, and collaborative efforts of the public in providing actionable information to aid our operations.”
