Troops of operation safe heaven have burst a criminal armed criminal syndicate while finalizing an arms deal worth N5,000,000.00 (Five Million Naira) at Banana Island Hotel, Bokkos, Plateau State.
The feat was recorded barely 72 hours after the arrest of five notorious gunrunners and the recovery of automatic weapons in addition to 6,000 rounds of assorted ammunition on Bauchi Road in Jos North Local Government Area of the State.
Military Public Information officer Operation Safe Haven, Major Samson Nantip Zhakom said intelligence-driven sting operations in a follow-up operations in Bokkos Town, Bokkos LGA, on 18 September 2024.
The gun battle, led to the two notorious gunrunners, Matawal Bitrus and Thomas Benedict, were arrested with their automatic weapons, according to Major Zhakom.
The suspects are currently in custody for interrogation, with efforts underway to gather further intelligence and apprehend additional members of the gunrunning syndicate still at large.
The latest operation, resulting in the arrests and recovery of arms in both Jos North and Bokkos LGAs, underscores the fact that criminality transcends ethno-religious boundaries.
Two AK-47 rifles, one automatic pistol, three AK-47 magazines were recovered by the troops.
The statement reiterated that crime is a common enemy that must be addressed collectively to ensure law-abiding citizens can pursue their socio-economic activities without fear.
It assured that the proliferation of firearms has been identified as a significant driver of insecurity, and Operation SAFE HAVEN, in collaboration with other security agencies, remains committed to dismantling such illegal operations.
It also enjoined troubled residents of Plateau, Bauchi States, and Southern Kaduna in Kaduna State to provide security agencies with credible information to help arrest criminal elements in the areas.
The military further urged residents to take advantage of its newly activated toll free line on 08000020203 remains available 24hours every day and also for the passage of information. Be rest assured we will always act promptly.
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