Troops of Operation Safe Haven have arrested two gunrunners in Plateau State as they attempted to sell ammunition worth N5 million.
The arrest took place on Saturday in the Bokkos Local Government Area (LGA), marking another victory in the state’s ongoing battle against illegal arms trade.
This latest operation occurred just 72 hours after troops captured five notorious gunrunners in the Bayameni community, along Bauchi Road in Jos North LGA.
During that earlier raid, security forces recovered automatic weapons and approximately 6,000 rounds of various ammunition.
In a statement released on Saturday, the spokesperson for Operation Safe Haven, Major Samson Zhakom, revealed that the two suspects, identified as Matawal Bitrus and Thomas Benedict, were arrested at Banana Island Hotel in Bokkos.
Security forces apprehended the men during a covert operation while they were negotiating an arms deal.
The following weapons were seized during the operation:
- Two AK-47 rifles
- One automatic pistol
- Two AK-47 magazines
- One Baretta pistol magazine
The suspects are now in custody for interrogation, with authorities planning to track down other members of their criminal syndicate who are still at large.
This arrest adds to growing evidence that criminal activity in the state transcends ethno-religious lines, Major Zhakom stated, urging communities to unite against the common enemy of lawlessness.
He noted that the proliferation of firearms remains a major driver of security challenges in the region, but assured that Operation Safe Haven, in collaboration with other security agencies, is determined to crack down on illegal arms dealings.
Major Zhakom further encouraged residents of Plateau, Bauchi, and Southern Kaduna to provide security forces with credible information to help combat crime and protect law-abiding citizens.
For quick responses to security threats, he reminded the public of the newly activated toll-free line—08000020203—available 24/7 for passing along vital information.
The operation serves as a strong message to criminal networks in the region that law enforcement remains vigilant and prepared to act swiftly to maintain peace and security.
