Troops arrest ISWAP terrorists in Plateau State

Troops of Operation Safe Haven, OPSH on the ongoing Operation Lafiyan Jama’a have arrested two members of the Islamic State’s West Africa Province, ISWAP in Plateau State, North-Central Nigeria.

In a coordinated operation on April 11, 2025, troops of Forward Operating Base, FOB Shendam busted an ISWAP cell located around Yelwa axis in Shendam LGA of Plateau State. During the sting operation, two suspected ISWAP members identified as Abdulkadir Dalhatu and Ubaidu Hassan, both 25 years-old posing as tailors were arrested by troops.

Preliminary investigation revealed that the arrested suspects were mandated by ISWAP Commander to use the cover of tailoring to facilitate the establishment of the group’s bases in Plateau and Bauchi States. The suspects are in custody for further action.

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Additionally, on April 11, 2025, troops of Sector 4 OPSH conducted follow-up operation at the hideout of a wanted criminal at Mazat Village in Barkin Ladi LGA of Plateau State. During the operation, the suspect fled before troops arrived at the scene. However, troops searched the hideout and recovered one AK-47 rifle with registration number 23402 as well as one AK-47 magazine buried in the building. The recovered weapons are in custody, while efforts are ongoing to nab the fleeing criminal and also recover other weapons in his possession.

Similarly, on April 12, 2025, troops of Sector 2 OPSH acting on credible intelligence laid ambush against bandits along Road Pinau-Bangalala in Wase LGA of Plateau State. During the operation, troops made contact and neutralised one terrorist while others fled with possible gunshot injuries. Troops exploited the general area and recovered one fabricated pistol.

A statement says “Operation Safe Haven is effective in addressing any security threat to civilians within the Joint Operations Area. We, therefore call for more credible information to aid the operations of troops as they intensify onslaughts on arm-carrying criminals”.

(Editor: Terverr Tyav)