Troops involved in Operation Safe Haven (OPSH) have successfully rescued 25 kidnap victims and eliminated three bandits during an offensive operation in the Kauru Local Government Area of Kaduna State.

The operation, code-named Golden Peace, was launched early Tuesday morning, December 3, 2024 to dismantle criminal networks terrorizing the region.

The operation began at approximately 6:00 a.m. with troops clearing key bandit strongholds in villages, including Ruwan Sanye, Randa, Rafin Gora, Libere Gari, and Libere Makaranta.

During the offensive, troops encountered resistance at Randa Village, where a gunfight ensued. Three bandits were neutralized, while several others fled, likely with gunshot wounds. The criminals were forced to abandon their kidnapped victims, resulting in the rescue of 25 hostages.

Further pursuit of the fleeing bandits led troops to discover traces of their movements, including items such as roasted chicken, cigarettes, tramadol, energy drinks, and clothing.

Troops also uncovered an illegal clinic used by the bandits to treat their injured members.

The makeshift medical facility was subsequently destroyed to deny the criminals access to medical aid.