Troops of Operation SAFE HAVEN (OPSH), under the ongoing Operation LAFIYAN JAMA’A, have recorded significant successes in combating insurgent activities and armed banditry in Plateau State.
In a coordinated sting operation on April 11, 2025, soldiers from the Forward Operating Base (FOB) in Shendam uncovered and dismantled an Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) cell operating in the Yelwa axis of the Shendam Local Government Area. Two suspects, identified as Abdulkadir Dalhatu (25) and Ubaidu Hassan (25), were arrested while disguised as tailors.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the suspects were tasked by an ISWAP commander to use their tailoring cover to establish operational bases across Plateau and Bauchi States. The arrested individuals are currently in custody for further interrogation and processing.
In a separate operation on the same day, troops from Sector 4 OPSH conducted a follow-up raid at the hideout of a known criminal in Mazat Village, Barkin Ladi LGA. Although the suspect escaped prior to the troops’ arrival, the soldiers recovered an AK-47 rifle and a magazine concealed within the building. Efforts are ongoing to apprehend the fleeing suspect and recover additional weapons.
On April 12, 2025, troops from Sector 2 OPSH, acting on credible intelligence, successfully ambushed bandits along the Pinau–Bangalala road in Wase LGA. During the encounter, one bandit was neutralized while others fled, likely with gunshot wounds. Troops recovered a locally fabricated pistol from the scene and continue to sweep the area for remaining threats.
Operation SAFE HAVEN continues to make notable progress in neutralizing threats and enhancing the safety of civilians across the Joint Operations Area. Authorities are calling on members of the public to provide timely and credible information to aid ongoing security efforts.
