By Lami Victor, KADUNA
Troops of 3 Division/Operation Safe HAVEN (OPSH) have successfully arrested notorious gunrunners, bandits, and arms couriers, recovering a significant cache of arms and ammunition during several intelligence-driven operations conducted in Plateau and Kaduna States over the past week.
On June 21, 2024, troops launched an operation targeting armed militias and criminals in suspected bandit hideouts located in Pandam Forest, Qua’anpan Local Government Area of Plateau State. This operation resulted in the recovery of three AK-47 rifles, five AK-47 magazines, and 75 rounds of 7.62mm (Special) ammunition.
According to a statement signed by the Media Information Officer of Operation Safe HAVEN, Major Samson Nantip Zhakom, a joint operation with a sister security agency on the same day led to the tracking and arrest of a notorious gunrunner along Riyom-Abuja Road in Riyom Local Government Area, Plateau State.
“The suspect was intercepted while attempting to deliver 35 AK-47 magazines to another gunrunner who had been apprehended in Kano State on June 20, 2024”.
Subsequent information from the arrested suspect led to the immediate arrest of a major arms supplier in Manchok, Kaura Local Government Area, Kaduna State, he added.
The statement indicated that the major supplier was attempting to collect the 35 AK-47 magazines for delivery to bandits in Zamfara State.
“A search operation at the residence of the major gunrunner yielded 35 AK-47 magazines, 60 rounds of 7.62mm (Special) ammunition, three Bajaj motorcycles, three mobile phones, and items suspected to be local charms,” the statement added.
The security agencies extend their gratitude to the general public for providing credible information that facilitated these operations. They urge the public to continue cooperating with security forces to ensure a crime-free environment.
