Operation Safe Heaven turns down N13.7million bribe from terrorists

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has revealed that troops under Operation Safe Haven turned down a N13.7 million bribe offered by terrorists during a security operation along the Jos-Sanga Road in Plateau State.

This was made known by the Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Markus Kangye, during a press briefing on ongoing military operations across the country, held Thursday in Abuja.

According to Kangye, troops responded to a distress call regarding terrorist activity in the area and intercepted two individuals suspected of terrorism. During the encounter, the suspects attempted to bribe the soldiers with N13.7 million to secure their release, but the offer was firmly rejected.

In the course of the wider operations, troops also carried out offensives and responded to emergency alerts in several Local Government Areas of Plateau State, including Bassa, Barkin Ladi, South Wase, Riyom, and Jos East. Similar actions were carried out in Kaura and Sanga LGAs of Kaduna State.

During these missions, soldiers engaged armed extremists, neutralized a number of them, arrested 12 suspects, and successfully rescued three kidnapped victims. Recovered items included firearms, ammunition, motorcycles, and vehicles.

In a related development, troops on routine patrol apprehended seven militia members and criminal elements in Barkin Ladi and Jos South LGAs of Plateau, as well as Wamba and Sanga LGAs in Nasarawa and Kaduna States. Seized items included weapons, ammunition, motorcycles, and illicit substances.

Major General Kangye noted that on July 9, troops intercepted a bullet-ridden vehicle along the Jos-Sanga Road. The occupants attempted to bribe the soldiers with cash, but the troops refused. Two suspects were arrested, and N13.7 million in cash, along with weapons, ammunition, and the vehicle, were recovered and are currently in military custody as investigations continue.

Commending the troops for their professionalism, Kangye urged continued public support for the military’s counter-terrorism efforts.

“As we push forward in bringing these operations to a close, I encourage Nigerians to remain alert and cooperative. Report suspicious activities promptly to security agencies,” he said.

He also stressed the importance of media support and public engagement, promising continued transparency and regular updates from the military.