Members of the Operation Safe Haven (OPSH), a specialized military unit tasked with ensuring peace in Plateau and certain areas of Bauchi and Kaduna States, have turned down a N1.5 million bribe offer from individuals suspected of cattle theft in Plateau State.
The information was made public by Capt. James Oya, the spokesperson for the operation, in a press release on Wednesday in Jos.
Capt. Oya revealed that the soldiers, serving in Sector Four, not only refused the bribe but also detained the two individuals who attempted to influence them.
He detailed that the eight soldiers who declined the bribe received praise and rewards from the operation’s leader, Maj.-Gen. Abdusalam Abubakar.
“OPSH has honored eight of its members for refusing a N1.5 million bribe from individuals suspected of cattle theft in Plateau.
“The honored members, stationed at OPSH Sector Four, intercepted 30 stolen cows at a checkpoint near Bisichi within the Barkin Ladi Local Government Area of the state.
“The livestock, owned by Shehu Umar, had been stolen in Mangu and were in the process of being moved to an unknown location when they were stopped and searched by our forces.
“Anas Usman, aged 20, and Gyang Cholly, aged 42, promptly sought to bribe the troops to obtain a pass for the illicitly acquired cattle.
“The offer of cash was refused, leading to the arrest of the suspects and the seizure of the bribe money,” Capt. Oya explained.
He added that the commander praised the soldiers for their integrity and outstanding behavior and encouraged members of other security forces to follow this commendable step towards ensuring the safety of lives and property in the state.
