Soldiers rejected N13.7m bribe from terrorists – DHQ

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) says troops of Operation Safe Haven rejected a bribe of N13.7 million offered by terrorists during an operation along the Jos-Sanga Road in Plateau.

The Director of Defence Media Operations, Maj.-Gen. Markus Kangye disclosed this while briefing journalists on military operations across the country on Thursday in Abuja.

Kangye said the troops had responded to a distress call about terrorist activities when they intercepted two terrorists who attempted to bribe them with N13.7 million.

He added that the troops also conducted offensive operations and responded to distress calls in the Bassa, Barkin Ladi, South Wase, Riyom, and Jos East Local Government Areas (LGAs) of Plateau.

According to him, the troops similarly conducted offensive operations in Kaura and Sanga LGAs of Kaduna State.

He said during the operations, the troops engaged extremists, killed some, arrested 12 suspects, and rescued three kidnapped victims.

“Some weapons, ammunition, motorcycles and vehicles were recovered from them.

Similarly, troops of Operation Safe Haven, while on routine patrol, arrested seven militias/criminals in Barkin Ladi and Jos South LGAs of Plateau State, as well as Wamba and Sanga LGAs of Nasarawa and Kaduna States, respectively.

“Items recovered from them were weapons, ammunition and motorcycles as well as illicit drugs.

“On July 9, our gallant troops intercepted a vehicle with bullet holes along Jos, Sanga Road. Suspects attempted to induce troops with monetary gratification, which they declined.”

He said, “Troops arrested two suspects, recovered weapons, ammunition, a vehicle and the sum of N13.7 million from them.

“While the investigation is ongoing, the recovered items are in the custody of the troops,” he said.

Kangye commended the troops for their resilience and professionalism in apprehending the criminals.

“As the Nigerian military intensifies efforts to conclude these operations, I urge the public to continue cooperating with security agencies, remain vigilant, and report any suspicious activities to the appropriate authorities.

“The support of all Nigerians, including the media, is crucial to the overall success of our mission.

“We will continue to provide timely updates and ensure transparency throughout the operation,” he added