Troops Smash Armed Robbery Syndicate in Jos, Recover Weapons and Ammunition

Jos, Plateau State – Troops of 3 Division of the Nigerian Army, operating under Operation SAFE HAVEN, have intensified their crackdown on criminal elements in Plateau State, recording major breakthroughs in a series of coordinated operations aimed at restoring law and order across Jos metropolis.

In one of the key operations conducted on the night of 24 May 2025, vigilant troops on night patrol in the Naraguta area of Jos North Local Government Area (LGA) arrested two suspected armed robbers found in possession of a pistol. The suspects were immediately taken into custody, and the weapon was secured as evidence for ongoing investigations.

Just hours later, in the early morning of 25 May 2025, troops further tightened the noose on criminal networks, apprehending a notorious armed robber near Crest Hotel at Corner Shagari, also in Jos North LGA. During the arrest, the suspect was found with one pistol and five rounds of 9mm ammunition.

Following swift preliminary interrogation, the suspect revealed the location of an accomplice. Troops acted on the intelligence and raided a hideout at Massalachin Idi in the Ali Kazaure area, where another suspect was captured. The search of the premises led to the recovery of **an additional pistol loaded with five rounds of 9mm ammunition**.

Military authorities confirmed that the arrested suspects are currently providing actionable intelligence to aid further raids and the dismantling of the broader criminal network.

The spokesperson for Operation SAFE HAVEN, Major Samson Nantip Zhakom, emphasized the military’s unrelenting resolve to secure not only the city centers but also surrounding communities.

> “These operations reflect our firm commitment to rooting out criminal elements. Our troops remain vigilant and proactive in ensuring that law-abiding citizens are safe, and that criminal elements have no place to hide,” Major Zhakom said.

He also called on the public to support security agencies with timely and credible information to enhance ongoing efforts across Plateau State.

With the latest string of arrests and weapons recovery, Operation SAFE HAVEN has sent a strong message to criminal syndicates operating in Jos and environs: the days of impunity are over.