Troops under Operation Safe Haven rescued 16 kidnapped passengers in a late-night operation along the Jos-Mangu road in Plateau State. The rescue mission, which took place on Sunday night, was confirmed on Monday by Major Samson Zhakom, the Media Officer for the operation, in a statement issued in Jos.
According to the statement, troops were patrolling the area when they found an empty vehicle abandoned by the roadside at Mararaban Kantoma in the Mangu Local Government Area. The suspicious discovery prompted an immediate search of the surrounding bushes, where it was believed the occupants of the vehicle had been taken.
As the troops approached the area, they came under gunfire from the kidnappers. A brief exchange ensued, but the soldiers quickly gained the upper hand, overpowering the attackers with superior firepower. The assailants fled, leaving the victims behind.
All 16 abducted individuals were safely rescued, including six children. Some of the victims had sustained minor injuries during the incident and were given first aid by the soldiers. After receiving medical attention, they were escorted to safety and later resumed their journey to Jos.
The swift and brave action by the troops prevented what could have been a tragic outcome and brought relief to the victims and their families.
