Troops kill notorious militia leader and kidnapper "Masters" in Plateau

Thursday, February 13, 2025 - Troops of Operation Safe Haven (OPSH) have neutralized a notorious militia leader and kidnapper, Hamisu Saleh, also known as “Master,” during a raid operation in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area of Plateau State. 

Intelligence sources disclosed that the operation was conducted on February 11, 2025, as part of ongoing efforts to combat criminal elements in the region. 

The sources referenced an earlier arrest of 25-year-old Saleh in December 2024 in connection with attacks, killings, and kidnappings in Barkin Ladi LGA. 

It was further gathered that on December 11, 2024, the suspect reappeared and continued his criminal activities. 

Following a series of investigations and interrogations, Saleh confessed to multiple kidnappings and disclosed information about weapons concealed in various locations used for criminal operations. 

Acting on the intelligence, a tactical team of OPSH troops launched a raid operation in the general area of Ropp, Barkin Ladi LGA, at approximately 2047 hours on February 11, 2025. 

The objective was to apprehend other members of the criminal gang and recover hidden weapons. 

During the operation, Saleh attempted to mislead the troops by giving false information about the hideouts and weapon storage locations. 

However, in a desperate move to escape and attack the soldiers, he tried to snatch a soldier’s weapon.

The troops responded swiftly, neutralizing the suspect. A further search of the area yielded no additional recoveries, but the military assured that offensive operations would be sustained to track down other criminals.