Troops of Operation Safe Haven have foiled an attempted kidnapping and rescued a cleric in Sanga Local Government Area of Kaduna State.
The development was disclosed in a report shared on X by security analyst Zagazola Makama on Saturday. According to the report, the incident occurred in the early hours of March 14 when suspected kidnappers attempted to abduct a cleric, Nuhu Anche, at his residence in Ningishe Village. The cleric serves with the Evangelical Reformed Church of Christ.
Makama said troops deployed at Ungwan Gora quickly responded after receiving a distress call about the attack. Security forces reportedly moved rapidly to the location, disrupting the operation and forcing the attackers to flee. “The swift response of the troops forced the kidnappers to flee without taking the victim,” a security source was quoted as saying.
Following the rescue operation, Rev. Anche was taken to the General Hospital Gwantu for medical attention. The cleric was said to be receiving treatment after the traumatic incident. According to the report, security operatives have intensified patrols and surveillance in surrounding communities. Authorities say the increased security presence is aimed at preventing further criminal activities in the region.
Kidnapping and banditry have remained major security challenges in several parts of Kaduna State and other regions of northern Nigeria. Security forces continue to conduct operations aimed at disrupting criminal networks and protecting local communities.
Last Updated: March 15, 2026
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