Troops from Operation Safe Haven in Plateau State successfully neutralized five armed bandits, including their notorious leader, Kachalla Saleh, during an operation on Monday in the Wase Local Government Area. This operation, conducted at around noon in Kinashe village, Bashar District, comes just days after a deadly clash between bandits and local vigilantes in the Dogon Ruwa community that left four people dead.
Local sources confirmed that the operation took place without resistance, as the bandits were caught by surprise. Abdullahi Haruna, a vigilante and youth leader in Wase, explained that the dense, bushy terrain of the village had previously provided cover for the bandits, who used the area as a hiding spot after forcing residents to flee. “The bandits didn’t expect security personnel to descend upon them at that time, given the area’s nature,” Haruna said, expressing gratitude for the successful mission.
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Residents of Bashar District and surrounding villages have endured ongoing violence from bandit groups, resulting in numerous deaths and displacements over the past two years. The presence of bandits in the area has created a constant state of fear among locals, who have repeatedly called for stronger security measures. Monday’s operation is seen as a much-needed success in the fight against the relentless wave of banditry.
Villagers commended the troops for their action, describing it as a relief for communities that have long been targeted by armed criminals. Many residents expressed hope that this operation signals a turning point for the area. “We are thankful for the efforts of Operation Safe Haven. This gives us some hope of returning to our homes without fear,” said one local resident who asked to remain anonymous.
Efforts to contact the spokesperson of Operation Safe Haven, Major Samson Zhakom, for an official statement were unsuccessful, as he did not respond to calls or messages from reporters.
The operation underscores the heightened security efforts in Plateau State, where ongoing attacks by bandits have led to the displacement of countless families and the deaths of civilians and security personnel alike. Local leaders and residents are now hopeful that this decisive action by the troops will help restore peace and security to Wase LGA, allowing people to return to their daily lives without the looming threat of violence.