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Troops of Operation SAFE HAVEN have apprehended a suspected kidnapper in possession of over N13.7 million in cash, firearms, and other items along the Wamba–Jos road in Sanga Local Government Area of Kaduna State.
The incident occurred on Wednesday, July 9, along the Wamba–Jos Road at Agameti, as part of the ongoing Operation LAFIYAN JAMA’A, which aims to flush out criminal elements within the Joint Operations Area.
According to Major Samson Zhakom, spokesperson for Operation SAFE HAVEN, the arrest was made during a snap checkpoint operation, where troops intercepted a Volkswagen vehicle with registration number JJN 336 YZ carrying three occupants. However, two of the suspects fled the scene upon sighting the checkpoint, leaving behind one individual who was immediately apprehended.
“A search on the vehicle led to the recovery of two AK-47 rifles, two magazines, 30 rounds of 7.62mm ammunition, three mobile phones, a knife, assorted charms, a football, a torchlight, and the sum of N13,742,000 in cash,” Major Zhakom said.
He added that the suspect attempted to bribe the troops, but the offer was rejected. Bullet holes and bloodstains were also found inside the vehicle.
During interrogation, the suspect reportedly confessed to being involved in kidnapping operations along the Jos–Makurdi road and volunteered to lead the troops to the gang’s hideout. However, while en route, the suspect attempted to disarm the soldiers in a bid to escape and was neutralised.
Zhakom said follow-up operations are ongoing to track down other fleeing members of the syndicate, reaffirming the military’s commitment to securing lives and property within the area.
Kaduna: Troops arrest suspected kidnapper with N13.7m, AK-47s
