In a decisive strike against criminality, the gallant troops of Operation Safe Haven (OPSH) achieved a significant victory in Kaduna State, rescuing 25 kidnapped victims and neutralizing three notorious bandits. The operation, code-named Golden Peace, was launched in the early hours of Tuesday in Kauru Local Government Area, targeting deeply entrenched criminal networks responsible for terrorizing the region.

Renowned security analyst and counterinsurgency expert, Zagazola Makama, shared the remarkable development on his official X handle, lauding the military’s commitment to restoring peace and stability. “This is a strategic breakthrough,” Makama stated, commending the troops for their precision and bravery in carrying out the operation.
The offensive operation followed weeks of meticulous intelligence gathering, which pinpointed the hideouts of the bandits. Military sources revealed that the operation was not only aimed at rescuing hostages but also at dismantling the logistics and operational capabilities of the criminal syndicate.
Brigadier General John Oguntade, the Commander of OPSH, described the rescue mission as a “significant milestone in the fight against banditry.” He added that the freed hostages, who include women and children, were immediately provided with medical attention and psychological support before being reunited with their families.
“Our mission remains to ensure that no criminal element finds sanctuary within our jurisdiction,” Oguntade said. “The success of Golden Peace underscores our resolve to safeguard lives and property across Kaduna and beyond.”
Community leaders in Kauru LGA expressed their gratitude to the military for responding decisively to the plight of the people. “This operation has renewed our hope in the authorities’ ability to protect us,” said Alhaji Suleiman Garba, a local elder.
The operation comes at a time when Kaduna State has witnessed a surge in kidnappings and banditry, leaving many communities in fear. Analysts believe that sustained military operations, coupled with community collaboration, are crucial to dismantling these criminal networks for good.
With the successful completion of Golden Peace, the focus now shifts to consolidating gains by maintaining a strong military presence and intensifying intelligence-driven operations to prevent future threats. The federal government has reiterated its commitment to equipping security forces with the resources necessary to keep the nation safe.
The triumph of Operation Safe Haven serves as a beacon of hope for communities in Kaduna and a reminder of the military’s unyielding resolve to defeat criminal elements across Nigeria.