By Mohammed Bello Doka
In a relentless pursuit of peace and security, the troops of Operation SAFE HAVEN have achieved remarkable successes within a span of two months. Operating across Plateau, Bauchi, and Kaduna States, the forces have conducted numerous sting operations resulting in the arrest of kidnappers, neutralization of armed criminals, and the rescue of kidnapped victims.
The narrative of these successes unfolded dramatically on January 2, 2024. At the Hawan Kibo checkpoint in Plateau State's Riyom Local Government Area, personnel intercepted a black Mercedes Benz C350, its number plate matching one reported as stolen at gunpoint from Mr. Abas Sani in Bauchi State. Two suspects, Samuel Ganya and Mohammed Nuru Shaibu, were swiftly apprehended, shedding light on a broader network of criminal activity spanning multiple states.
Simultaneously, security agencies responded to distress calls regarding suspected bandits in Bang, Zamtip, and Gwantim villages within Plateau State's Wase Local Government Area. The ensuing engagement led to the arrest of four suspects and the recovery of three motorcycles. In a separate operation in Kaduna State's Kaura Local Government Area, a notorious criminal named Mr. Markus Dawa was apprehended, armed with a rifle and a pistol, confessing to multiple kidnappings and killings.
The relentless pursuit of criminals continued, as demonstrated on January 3, 2024, when personnel responded swiftly to a kidnapping incident along the Kaskara-Mangu road in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area. The victim, Emmanuel Monday Jafrom, was rescued, and one of the kidnappers, Biliyaminu Musa, was captured, highlighting the swift and decisive action of Operation SAFE HAVEN.
On January 4, 2024, security agencies stationed at Gashish junction checkpoint in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area arrested Mr. Shamsu Ibrahim Bakoji for collaborating with militias to orchestrate attacks in the region. These arrests underscored the multifaceted approach of Operation SAFE HAVEN in tackling various forms of criminality.
In a proactive move to ensure justice is served, Operation SAFE HAVEN arraigned four criminal suspects—Dalek Rafan, Makut Danladi, Hussaini Isa, and Ayuba Sati—before the Chief Magistrate court in Abattoir Jos South Local Government Area on January 8, 2024. Charged with unlawful possession of weapons, they were swiftly sentenced to six months imprisonment, signaling the swift dispensation of justice.
Further breakthroughs occurred on January 14, 2024, with the arrest of two suspected gunrunners, Abubakar Adamu and Surajo Salisu, in Wase Local Government Area. The recovery of firearms and ammunition highlighted the ongoing efforts to stem the flow of illegal weapons.
On February 2, 2024, personnel acted swiftly upon the identification of suspects Ibrahim Mohammed and Zaharadeen Ibrahim in a viral video depicting a murder during the crisis in Mangu. This arrest showcased the importance of leveraging technology in apprehending perpetrators of violent crimes.
Expanding their focus beyond apprehensions, security agencies targeted illegal arms manufacturing and proliferation. On February 14, 2024, a raid on a local weapon fabrication factory in Pakachi village led to the arrest of Tapshak Plangi and the recovery of a vast array of weapons and manufacturing equipment, highlighting the sophistication of criminal enterprises.
Continuing their proactive stance, security agencies intercepted Mr. Friday Machem on February 16, 2024, at Fubok/Ganda village in Bokkos Local Government Area, recovering an AK 47 rifle and thwarting potential criminal activity. This intervention exemplified the vigilance of Operation SAFE HAVEN in safeguarding communities.
Throughout February, operations intensified, leading to the arrest of numerous suspects involved in various criminal activities. Notable among these was the arrest of Mohammed Bello, known as HARABU DAN ZAMFARA, for manufacturing military uniforms for suspected bandits in Mangu Local Government Area.
On February 24, 2024, security agencies rescued Alhaji Likita, kidnapped in Bassa Local Government Area, and apprehended the mastermind, Abubakar Adam, in Bauchi State, showcasing the collaborative efforts across state borders to combat crime effectively.
As February drew to a close, a joint operation raided a suspected gun manufacturing factory in Gyel Community, recovering a significant cache of weapons. These operations underscored the unwavering commitment of Operation SAFE HAVEN to dismantle criminal networks and safeguard communities.
In summary, Operation SAFE HAVEN's relentless efforts resulted in the rescue of 79 civilians, the recovery of 110 different calibers of weapons, and the apprehension of 271 suspects. Legal proceedings against 33 individuals and the dismantling of two arms fabrication factories further underscored the commitment to justice and security.
Operation SAFE HAVEN extends its gratitude to the communities for their support and emphasizes the importance of peace and collaboration in combating crime. As the forces redouble their efforts, they call on all citizens to prioritize peace and legal recourse, ensuring a safer future for all.
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