Military And Veterans
Troops arrest gunrunner, recover arms, ammunition in Plateau
Troops arrest gunrunner, recover arms, ammunition in Plateau
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✍️By ZRIntel Editorial Team📍Plateau State, Nigeria
In recent operations, troops from the 3 Division of the Nigerian Army, under the aegis of Operation Joint Task Force known as Operation Enduring Peace, succeeded in apprehending a suspected gunrunner and recovered a significant cache of arms and ammunition in the Plateau State region. These operations took place on Thursday and were a strategic part of the military's ongoing initiative to eliminate illicit arms from circulation, which is particularly critical during the festive yule season, a time when peacekeeping efforts are paramount.
In the early hours of the operation, troops, working closely with operatives from the Department of State Services (DSS), conducted a raid on a suspected criminal hideout in Gwender Village, Bokkos Local Government Area. This action was informed by intelligence reports that indicated the area was a hub for criminal activities relating to arms trafficking. Although suspects had vacated the premises prior to the troops' arrival, a thorough search resulted in the recovery of crucial evidence: one fabricated AK-47 rifle complete with a magazine, a fabricated pistol, and numerous rounds of ammunition of varying calibers.
The operations did not conclude here. In parallel efforts, a Tactical Team from the DSS, in collaboration with the military, set up a snap checkpoint at Mairana in the Mangu Local Government Area. In this operation, a young Fulani man was intercepted, yielding two boxes of ammunition, containing an alarming 1,400 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition. This particular seizure indicates a concerning trend towards the accumulation of high-caliber rounds presumably destined for illicit use.
The arrested suspect, along with the recovered military-grade arms and ammunition, has been taken into custody, and investigations are underway to ascertain any connections to a broader criminal network operating within the region. The military has vowed to maintain persistent pressure on these criminal elements to restore security and safety throughout Plateau State and the adjacent Joint Operations Area.
This operation serves as a stark reminder of the dual threats posed by issues surrounding arms proliferation and the challenges of maintaining law and order amidst rising tensions in various regions of Nigeria. The military's proactive approach in rolling back the tide of illegal arms trade is a significant step towards restoring peace in Plateau State, where recent events highlight the urgent need for heightened security measures. The commitment from the Nigerian military to sustain such operations underscores the seriousness with which they view the implications of unchecked arms trafficking on public safety.
As we reflect on these developments, we acknowledge the broader implications for the firearms landscape within Nigeria. While this operation showcases the military's resolve, the persistent challenge of gunrunning reflects a deeper societal issue requiring comprehensive strategies that integrate law enforcement, community engagement, and educational initiatives aimed at tackling the roots of illegal arms trade.
Early reports suggest that the military's operations in Plateau State could signify growing awareness and action against escalating arms trafficking. While the immediate outcomes are promising, ongoing vigilance and broader community strategies will be essential to truly mitigate these illicit activities impacting public safety. What remains uncertain is how deeply rooted these networks are and what future measures will be implemented to prevent resurgence in arms trafficking. As we progress, a holistic approach integrating law enforcement with community engagement may serve as a critical blueprint moving forward.