Bandits offer Nigerian soldiers N13.7m bribe, get surprise reaction

In a move that shocked a group of armed bandits, some Nigerian soldiers who were offered a hefty bribe of N13.7 million rejected the money, choosing instead to arrest the suspects during a military operation along the Jos-Sanga Road in Plateau State.

The Defence Headquarters revealed on Thursday that troops from Operation Safe Haven were responding to a distress call when they intercepted two suspected bandits.

In a desperate attempt to avoid capture, the suspects reportedly tried to offer the soldiers the multi-million naira bribe—but were met with a firm refusal and immediate arrest.

Major General Markus Kangye, Director of Defence Media Operations, praised the troops for their integrity and swift action.

He noted that the suspects were apprehended on July 9 and that the illicit cash, along with weapons, ammunition, and a vehicle, were recovered from them. The items remain in military custody while investigations continue.

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Kangye said the operation was part of a broader offensive by security forces in troubled areas of Plateau, Kaduna, and Nasarawa states.

He said during the operations, the troops engaged extremists, killed some, arrested 12 suspects, and rescued three kidnapped victims.

“Some weapons, ammunition, motorcycles and vehicles were recovered from them.

“Similarly, troops of Operation Safe Haven while on routine patrol arrested seven militias/criminals in Barkin Ladi and Jos South LGAs of Plateau State as well as Wamba and Sanga LGAs of Nasarawa and Kaduna States respectively.

“Items recovered from them were weapons, ammunition and motorcycles as well as illicit drugs.

“On July 9, our gallant troops intercepted a vehicle with bullet holes along Jos, Sanga Road. Suspects attempted to induce troops with monetary gratification, which they declined.”

He said, “Troops arrested two suspects, recovered weapons, ammunition, a vehicle and the sum of N13.7 million from them.

“While the investigation is ongoing, the recovered items are in the custody of the troops,” he said.

Kangye commended the troops for their resilience and professionalism in apprehending the criminals.

“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 to the appropriate authorities.

“The support of all Nigerians, including the media, is crucial to the overall success of our mission.
“We will continue to provide timely updates and ensure transparency throughout the operation,” he added.