by Christiana Gokyo, Jos
Plateau State’s security machinery, the ‘Operation SAFE HAVEN’ (OPSH), has arrested and paraded one suspected murderer of the Ardo of Panyam, Alh. Adamu Idris Gabdo, on 24th September, 2023.
The troops of Operation SAFE HAVEN (OPSH) Tactical Team arrested one Mr Philip Gokas, also known as “Jaykimo” in Lagos State, following weeks of painstaking manhunt to bring the criminal to justice.
He is suspected to have masterminded the murder of the Ardo of Panyam in Mangu Local Government Area of Plateau State.
Lt-Col. Ishaku Takwa, the Acting Deputy Director Army Public Relations 3rd Armoured Division, Rukuba, near Jos, while parading the suspect on Wednesday said the relentless pursuit by OPSH led to Philip Gokas’ tracking and subsequent arrest in the Ogba area of Lagos State, where he was found enjoying himself and drinking beer at a football viewing centre.
According to him, “The arrest of Mr. Philip Gokas is a testament to the commitment and unwavering dedication of OPSH and the effectiveness of collaborative efforts.”
He explained that, “Mr. Gokas has fully confessed to the crime and has provided crucial information that will aid in the arrest of additional individuals involved in this heinous act in the coming days.
“This development serves as a clear warning to criminals that they cannot elude justice, as security agencies retain the capacity and resilience to utilise all elements of national power to hold them accountable as directed by the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen CG Musa,” he stated.
He recalling that, following the murder of the Ardo Panyam, the Chief of Army Staff, Lt-Gen Taoreed Lagbaja, directed Operation SAFE HAVEN (OPSH) to recover the body of the deceased, which was successfully accomplished by the OPSH Tactical Team in a remote area of Bauchi State, and handed over to the family for burial.
According to him, the directive further charged the troops to quickly hunt down the perpetrators and bring them to justice to prevent reprisals and fresh circle of violence after the peace being enjoyed on the Plateau, consequent upon the launch of Operation HAKORIN DAMISA IV.
Lt-Col. Takwa noted that, “The breakthrough also signifies a milestone in our pursuit for justice,” adding that, they therefore remain steadfast in their commitment to maintaining peace and security on the Plateau and its environs.
He assured that, they will continue to work tirelessly to prevent any escalation of violence, adding that, “The General Officer Commanding 3rd Division and Commander Operation SAFE HAVEN, Maj-Gen AE Abubakar, expresses his heartfelt appreciation to the public for their support and cooperation throughout this investigation.
“The recovery of the body of the late Ardo of Panyam and the subsequent arrest of Mr Philip Gokas would not have been possible without the invaluable assistance and information provided by the community,” he said.
He further reiterated that the criminal act was perpetrated by a few “bad eggs” in the society and does not represent the intent of the good people of Panyam, who have lived for years peacefully with their Fulani brothers.
The GOC further commended the troops, especially the Tactical Team, for their tireless efforts, professionalism, and unwavering commitment during the operation in far away Lagos.
While assuring the public that their efforts to ensure the safety and security of all citizens will not waver, and remains paramount and they will continue to work closely with relevant stakeholders and engage in continuous dialogue to foster peace and tranquility in the area.
Speaking, the suspect (Mr. Philip Gokas) said he was in his farm to check because he was told that caws had entered his farm; so, he heard people shouting and he went to check; he saw it was the Ardo that was being dragged by some people near a river.
According to him, when he asked why are they dragging him?, they told him that he comes to spy on them to come and kill them, because those people were angry because they have killed their people.
He said, on hearing this, he got angry because he lost two of his brothers, so he joined them and used his clothe to tighten his neck and wait until he gave up.