The Nigerian Army says that troops of Operation SAFE HAVEN (OPSH) on Operations HAKORIN DAMISA IV have arrested 39 criminal suspects in connection with banditry, kidnapping and armed robbery as well as recovered arms/ammunition and hard drugs.
In a statement on Tuesday, the Army said that the suspects were arrested between August 14 and 21.
According to the statement, the suspects were arrested at different locations within the Joint Operation Area of Operation SAFE HAVEN and 3 Division Nigerian Army Area of Responsibility.
“Two of the suspects have been on the wanted list for involvement in several armed robbery and kidnapping activities.
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“Troops recovered 1 AK 47 rifle, 1 pump-action magnum gun, 1 AK 47 Magazine, 14 rounds of 7.62mm special and an itel mobile phone from the suspects.
“A suspected kidnapper and arms dealer was also captured at Kuba village in Bokkos LGA of Plateau State. Similarly, troops arrested 2 militia gang members identified to be among those who attacked Heipang general area recently and recovered 2 x AK 47 rifles,7 fabricated rifles and 4 pump action cartridges during the operations.
“A drug syndicate operating in Bassa LGA was also nabbed during a sting operation and 7 drug peddlers arrested with a large cache of drugs,” the statement read in part.
The Army further said that troops arrested a total of 307 cows for grazing on farmlands belonging to locals at Kubat Community and Mabel village of Mangu and Bokkos LGAs respectively.
“Furthermore, a total of 37 distress calls were prompted responded to by OPSH within the period leading to the rescue of 17 kidnapped victims, foiling of cattle rustling and repelling of attacks on vulnerable communities especially in Mangu, Barkin Ladi and Riyom LGAs.
“OPSH remains committed to bringing lasting peace to the Plateau and would continue to be responsive and swift in protecting the lives and property of citizens,” the Army said.