Kangye commended the troops for their courage, integrity, and professionalism, particularly in refusing the bribe and upholding their duty to the nation.
Troops of Operation Safe Haven have reportedly rejected a N13.7million bribe offered by suspected terrorists during a military operation along the Jos-Sanga Road in Plateau State, the Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has disclosed.
Speaking at a media briefing on Thursday in Abuja, the Director of Defence Media Operations, Maj Gen Markus Kangye, revealed that the troops were responding to a distress call when they intercepted two terrorists who attempted to offer the bribe in exchange for their release.
“On July 9, our gallant troops intercepted a vehicle with bullet holes along Jos-Sanga Road,” Kangye stated.
“The suspects attempted to induce the troops with monetary gratification, which they declined. Troops arrested two suspects and recovered weapons, ammunition, a vehicle, and the sum of N13.7million from them.”
He added that the recovered items are currently in military custody while investigations continue.
According to Kangye, the troops also carried out a series of offensive operations and responded to distress calls in Bassa, Barkin Ladi, South Wase, Riyom, and Jos East Local Government Areas (LGAs) of Plateau State. Similar operations were conducted in Kaura and Sanga LGAs in Kaduna State.
“These operations resulted in the neutralisation of some terrorists, the arrest of 12 suspects, and the rescue of three kidnapped victims. Troops also recovered assorted weapons, ammunition, motorcycles, and vehicles used by the criminals,” he said.
In a separate development, troops on routine patrol arrested seven suspected militias and criminals in Barkin Ladi and Jos South LGAs of Plateau, as well as in Wamba and Sanga LGAs of Nasarawa and Kaduna States, respectively. Items recovered included more weapons, ammunition, motorcycles, and illicit drugs.
Kangye commended the troops for their courage, integrity, and professionalism, particularly in refusing the bribe and upholding their duty to the nation.
“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,” he said.
“The support of all Nigerians, including the media, is crucial to the overall success of our mission.”
The Defence Headquarters pledged to provide continuous and transparent updates on ongoing military operations nationwide.