Troops of Operation Safe Haven (OPSH) have arrested two people behind an illegal weapon manufacturing factory and recovered 20 caches of automatic weapons from the suspects in Vom, Jos South local government area of Plateau State.
Addressing newsmen in Jos, Plateau State, the Media Officer, OPSH Captain Oya James, said preliminary investigation revealed that the arrested individuals, Michael Dung, 33 years old and Yusufu Pam, 43 years old were involved in the illegal production of different calibers of weapons locally fabricated in Vom, Jos South Local Government Area of Plateau State, from where they sell to their customers in different parts of the country.
He pointed out that the weapon manufacturing factory was involved in the production of various firearms, ammunition, and other related dangerous weapons, adding that weapons pose a grave threat to the security and stability of the state and the nation at large.
He said: “The raid operation carefully executed by the troops led to the recovery of 6 AK 47 rifles, 3 skeleton AK 47 rifles, 1 local pistol, 11 rifle bodies, 7 bridge blocks, 4 magazines, 210 springs, 7 rifle butts, and 8 rifle muzzles.”Other items include nine piston assemblies, five cartridge housings, one drilling machine, and a hand-filing machine.
He disclosed that the operation to apprehend the syndicates and dismantle the factory was conducted with the utmost professionalism and adherence to the rule of law, adding that based on concrete intelligence, the troops acted swiftly and decisively to neutralize the threat to public safety.
However, the General Officer Commanding the 3rd Division Nigerian Army and Commander Operation SAFE HAVEN, Major General AE Abubakar, while appreciating the Chief of Army Staff for his strategic guidance that has led to huge successes recently recorded, also commended the dedication, bravery, and tireless efforts of the troops who have been working relentlessly to ensure the security and well-being of our citizens.
He stated that their commitment to duty and their unwavering determination to rid society of illegal weapons were truly commendable, adding that the arrests and discoveries made are significant milestones in the ongoing efforts to tackle the proliferation of illegal weapons.
“Moving forward, we will continue to intensify our operations to identify and apprehend more individuals involved in the illegal manufacturing and circulation of weapons. We urge members of the public to support our efforts by providing any relevant information that can assist in our operations. We assure you that the individuals arrested will face the full force of the law, and we will work closely with the appropriate authorities to ensure a thorough investigation and prosecution of those involved in this illegal activity.
“It is pertinent to note that the proliferation of small arms and light weapons has been identified as one of the key triggers fueling the crisis on the Plateau and in Southern Kaduna. Nevertheless, Operation Safe Haven remains resolute in mopping up these weapons from all non-state actors.
The Commander, OPSH, expressed his appreciation to the public for their continued support and cooperation with the troops.
