Nigerian Troops Reject N13.7m Bribe, Neutralize Bandits in Nationwide Push

In a strong display of integrity and effectiveness, Nigerian troops of Operation Safe Haven have rejected a staggering N13.7 million bribe offered by suspected terrorists in Plateau State, while simultaneously neutralizing several bandits and arresting numerous criminals across multiple theatres of operation.

The Director, Defence Media Operations, Major General Markus Kangye, disclosed these significant breakthroughs during a press briefing in Abuja on Thursday, outlining military operations conducted nationwide between July 9 and 16, 2025.

According to Major General Kangye, the bribe attempt occurred on July 9, 2025, when gallant troops intercepted a vehicle riddled with bullet holes along the Jos-Sanga Road in Plateau State. Upon intercepting the suspicious vehicle and its two occupants, the suspects attempted to induce the soldiers with a sum of N13,742,000 in exchange for their freedom.

“Our gallant troops intercepted a vehicle with bullet holes along Jos, Sanga Road. Suspects attempted to induce troops with monetary gratification, but they declined,” Major General Kangye stated, praising the professionalism and ethical conduct of the soldiers. The troops arrested the two suspects, recovered the cash, along with weapons, ammunition, and the vehicle. An investigation into the matter is currently ongoing.

Beyond this act of integrity, the military reported significant operational successes in its nationwide crackdown on criminal elements. Troops of Operation Safe Haven conducted offensive operations and responded to distress calls across various local government areas in Plateau and Kaduna States, including Bassa, Barkin Ladi, South Wase, Riyom, Jos East, Kaura, and Sanga.

During these operations, the troops made contact with extremists, killing several of them, arresting 12 suspects, and rescuing three kidnapped victims. Various weapons, ammunition, motorcycles, and vehicles were recovered from the criminals. Additionally, routine patrols led to the arrest of seven suspected militias and criminals in Barkin Ladi and Jos South LGAs of Plateau State, and in Wamba and Sanga LGAs spanning Nasarawa and Kaduna States.

In other notable operations, troops in Borno State arrested two members of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) for allegedly ferrying military uniforms and equipment to terrorists. A 65-year-old terrorist logistics supplier, Shaibu Bulama, was also apprehended in Damasak Motor Park, Yobe State, with arms and ammunition recovered.

The military also intensified its fight against oil theft in the Niger Delta, with troops of Operation Delta Safe arresting 42 suspected oil thieves. They recovered over 201,000 litres of stolen crude oil, nearly 30,000 litres of illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil, and destroyed 19 illegal refining sites, among other items. In Rivers and Delta States, troops apprehended a notorious cult leader, Prince Johnson Ishirim (aka Commander Junior), and 13 other suspected criminals/kidnappers.

Major General Kangye affirmed the military’s unwavering commitment to rooting out terrorism and criminality while upholding the highest ethical standards. He urged continued public cooperation and vigilance to ensure the overall success of their mission.