In a significant achievement, troops under Operation SAFE HAVEN (OPSH) have uncovered and effectively dismantled an illicit weapon manufacturing factory located in Vom, Jos South Local Government Area of Plateau State. The operation, which was carried out on the basis of actionable intelligence, signifies a major stride in OPSH’s ongoing endeavors to combat the proliferation of illegal arms, consequently enhancing the safety and security of the state and its surrounding regions.
The unearthing of this clandestine weapon production facility was the culmination of a meticulously executed intelligence-led operation conducted by the OPSH troops. The operation resulted in the substantial recovery of a cache of automatic weapons and associated equipment, which were being produced and distributed, exacerbating the conflict situation on the Plateau and in Southern Kaduna. The recovered items comprise 6 AK-47 rifles, 4 sub-machine guns, 11 AK rifle bodies, a pistol, and 7 AK-47 bridge blocks, among others. Additionally, 4 AK-47 rifle magazines, 210 recoil springs for AK-47 rifles, 7 rifle butts, 8 rifle muzzles, 9 piston assemblies, and 5 cartridge housings were also seized. A drilling machine set and a hand-filling machine were among the equipment recovered during the operation.
In a significant development, two individuals directly involved in the illicit arms production and marketing process, identified as Michael Dung (33 years) and Yusuf Pam (43 years), were apprehended by the OPSH forces.
The leadership of OPSH, working in close coordination with various law enforcement agencies, is steadfast in its commitment to ensuring that those engaged in criminal activities, along with their collaborators, face the full force of the law. These arrests serve as a stern warning that the production and trafficking of illegal arms will not be tolerated, and anyone found involved will be held accountable for their actions.
The successful operation underscores OPSH’s unwavering dedication to rid the Joint Operations Area of illegal arms and to disrupt criminal networks engaged in the illegal production and distribution of weapons, in line with the mandate provided to the troops during the launch of Operations HAKORIN DAMISA IV by the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. TA Lagbaja. The recovery of a significant number of firearms and associated equipment will undoubtedly disrupt the activities of criminal elements, thereby contributing to the overall security and stability of Plateau State and the nation as a whole, which remains the primary focus of the Chief of Defence Staff, General CG Musa.
Major General AE Abubakar, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) and Commander of OPSH, expressed his appreciation for the troops’ unwavering commitment and extended his gratitude to the local community for their continuous support and cooperation in providing valuable information that has been instrumental in combating criminal activities. This collaboration between the military and the public is pivotal to the success of operations aimed at preserving peace and security in Plateau State and, by extension, Nigeria.
OPSH remains resolute in its commitment to safeguarding the lives and property of law-abiding citizens. Efforts will be redoubled to identify and neutralize illegal weapons manufacturing facilities and dismantle criminal networks involved in arms proliferation. The public is encouraged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities or individuals to the relevant authorities. Together, we can collectively contribute to a safer and more secure Nigeria for all.
