Troops Foil Kidnap Attempt, Recover ₦13.7 Million Ransom in Kaduna, Neutralise Suspect
In a swift counter-kidnapping operation, troops under Operation SAFE HAVEN intercepted and dismantled a kidnapping syndicate along the Wamba–Jos Road in Agameti, Sanga Local Government Area of Kaduna State on Wednesday, July 9, 2025.
The operation, part of the ongoing internal security mission Operation LAFIYAN JAMA’A, led to the recovery of high-powered weapons, over ₦13 million in suspected ransom funds, and the neutralisation of a key suspect who resisted arrest.
According to a press release issued Thursday by Maj. Samson Nantip Zhakom, Media Information Officer for Operation SAFE HAVEN, the breakthrough came during a routine snap checkpoint manned by troops in the area.
Soldiers flagged down a Volkswagen vehicle with license plate JJN 336 YZ, which had three occupants. Upon sighting the checkpoint, two of the suspects immediately fled into nearby bushland. Troops secured the vehicle and detained the remaining occupant.
Initial inspection of the vehicle revealed blood stains and bullet holes, raising immediate suspicion. Attempts by the suspect to bribe the troops with a large sum of cash were firmly rejected, leading to his arrest.
A detailed search uncovered significant evidence:
- Two AK-47 rifles
- Two magazines loaded with 30 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition
- Three mobile phones
- A combat knife
- Charms and personal effects including a football and a torchlight
- ₦13,742,000 in cash, believed to be ransom money
Under interrogation, the suspect confessed to involvement in numerous abductions along the Jos–Makurdi corridor and volunteered to lead troops to the group’s hideout. However, during transit, the suspect attempted to seize a soldier’s weapon and was subsequently neutralised.
Efforts are ongoing to track down the fleeing accomplices and dismantle the remaining elements of the network.
Operation SAFE HAVEN reaffirmed its commitment to dismantling criminal operations and restoring lasting peace across its Joint Operations Area.
