Operation Golden Peace: Troops Neutralize Criminals, Rescue Victims, and Pledge to Restore Stability

Jos, Nigeria — In a determined push to restore peace and security across Plateau, Kaduna States and Plateau Taraba Boundary, troops of the 3 Division of the Nigerian Army/Operation Safe Haven have achieved significant milestones through their ongoing Operation Golden Peace. The operation, which combines offensive strategies with non-kinetic engagements, has led to the neutralization of criminal elements and the rescue of kidnapped victims, among other notable outcomes.

Over the past two months, troops intensified operations along the Plateau-Taraba border, particularly in Bangalala and Kinishi forests that stretch across Wase and Karim Lamido Local Government Areas. These efforts resulted in the dismantling of bandit camps and the rescue of 18 kidnapped victims, including elderly persons, women, and children. After profiling and documentation, the victims were successfully reunited with their families. The operations have mounted pressure on bandits in the region, disrupting their criminal activities.

Key arrests were also made during this period. In December 2024, troops apprehended multiple bandits in Tarangol, Bokkos LGA, and Jannaret, Mangu LGA, recovering fabricated rifles, ammunition, and other weapons. Among those captured was Musa Abubakar, also known as Haburuwa, a notorious kidnap kingpin responsible for several abductions in Bassa and Jos South LGAs. Another high-profile arrest involved Mosaje, a suspected gunrunner apprehended in Dengi, Kanam LGA. His confession is aiding investigations to track down his collaborators and dismantle the criminal syndicate.

As part of efforts to ensure a safe New Year celebration, troops intercepted several gunrunners in Bokkos and Jema’a LGAs, recovering firearms and ammunition. In Sanga LGA, Kaduna State, troops foiled a kidnapping attempt and arrested four suspects with a Dane gun. In another operation, kidnappers were ambushed in Bokkos LGA during a ransom collection. One suspect was neutralized, while an accomplice was arrested with ₦200,000 cash.

3 Division/Operation Safe Have, reaffirmed the commitment of the security forces to securing lives and property within the Joint Operations Area. They encouraged members of the public to support ongoing operations by providing timely intelligence to aid the fight against criminal elements.

The success of Operation Golden Peace underscores the resolve of the military to restore peace and stability in the region while maintaining the safety of its citizens.