by Christiana Gokyo, Jos
The troops of Operation SAFE HAVEN (OPSH) have successfully uncovered and dismantled an illegal weapon manufacturing factory in Vom, Jos South Local Government Area of Plateau State.
This was disclosed by GOC and Commander OPSH, Maj-Gen AE Abubakar, who noted thus: “The operation, which was based on ‘actionable intelligence,’ marks a significant step in the ongoing efforts of OPSH to combat illicit arms proliferation and ensure the safety and security of the state and environs.
“The discovery of the weapon factory was also the result of a meticulously executed intelligence-led operation conducted by the troops, leading to the substantial recovery of a cache of automatic weapons and related equipment that were being produced and distributed to other states, thereby fuelling crisis on the Plateau and in Southern Kaduna.
“The recovered items include 6 AK-47 rifles, 4 sub-machine guns, 11 AK-47 rifle bodies, a pistol and 7 x AK-47 bridge blocks, while others include 4 x AK-47 rifle magazines, 210 recoil springs for AK-47 rifles, 7 rifle butts, 8 rifle muzzles, 9 piston assemblies as well as 5 cartridge housings.
“Also recovered were one drilling machine set, and a hand filling machine. In addition to the seizure of the weapons and weapon fabricating equipment, two individuals directly involved in the weapon proliferation and marketing process, Michael Dung 33 years, and Yusuf Pam 43 years, were both apprehended.
“The leadership of OPSH, working in close coordination with law enforcement agencies, will continue to ensure those responsible for perpetuating criminal activities and their collaborators face the full wrath of the law.
“These arrests send a clear message that illegal arms production and trafficking will not be tolerated, and anybody involved will be held accountable for their actions.
“The successful operation further demonstrates the unwavering commitment of OPSH to rid the Joint Operations Area of illegal arms and dismantle criminal networks involved in illegal weapon manufacturing and distribution, in line with the mandate given to troops during the launch of Operations HAKORIN DAMISA IV by the Chief of Army Staff, Lt-Gen TA Lagbaja.
“The recovery of such a significant number of firearms and related equipment will undoubtedly disrupt the activities of criminal elements and contribute to the overall security and stability of Plateau State and, indeed the entire nation, which remains the primary focus of the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen CG Musa.
The GOC and Commander OPSH, Maj-Gen AE Abubakar, while commending the troops’ resilience, expressed his gratitude to the community for their continued support and cooperation in providing valuable information that has aided the fight against criminal activities.
He stressed that, “The collaboration between the military and the public is crucial in ensuring the success of operations aimed at maintaining peace and security in Plateau State and, by extension Nigeria.
“OPSH remains resolute in its commitment to protect the lives and property of all law-abiding citizens. Efforts will continue to be intensified to identify and neutralize illegal weapons manufacturing facilities and dismantle criminal networks involved in arms proliferation.
“We urge the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities or individuals to the appropriate authorities and, together, we can create a safer and more secure Nigeria for all.”