Troops Neutralize Three Kidnappers In Failed Ransom Operation, Rescue Abducted Soldier In Plateau

Troops of Operation Safe Haven (OPSH) have eliminated three suspected kidnappers during a botched ransom collection in Riyom Local Government Area of Plateau State, following the abduction of Corporal Munyal Abdullahi of the 3 Division Garrison.

The soldier, who was travelling to Abuja without official clearance, was kidnapped on August 2, 2025, by armed criminals along the Jos–Makurdi Road at Rafin Sanyi. Acting swiftly, troops from OPSH Sector 6, in collaboration with the EIB STRATOC team, launched a targeted operation on August 4 across Farin Lamba, Maraban Jema’a, and Ganawuri, covering parts of Jos South and Riyom LGAs.

The kidnappers had demanded a ransom of ₦500,000, which the victim’s family dropped off at the Kwakwi area of Riyom LGA. Surveillance teams tracked a suspect carrying the ransom bag as he diverted through a bush path towards a POS shop.

On realizing he was being tailed, the suspect alerted his gang, triggering a pursuit by the troops. A fierce gunfight ensued, leading to the neutralization of three gang members, while others managed to flee.

The soldiers recovered ₦312,000 in cash, two knives, three mobile phones, and an AirPod device from the scene. Amidst the chaos, Corporal Abdullahi seized the opportunity to escape captivity and safely returned to his unit.

The Nigerian Army reiterated its commitment to sustaining aggressive operations against criminal elements threatening security in the region.