Africa
Nigeria Army cracks down on gunrunners

In a significant boost to security in the region, troops of 3 Division/Operation Safe Haven have successfully apprehended notorious gunrunners and recovered arms and ammunition in separate operations conducted under Operation Golden Peace.
According to Major Samson Nantip Zhakom, Military Public Information Officer for Operation Safe Haven, the operations were part of efforts to ensure a secure and peaceful yuletide season across the Joint Operations Area.
On December 18, 2024, troops conducted a raid on a criminal hideout near the Plateau-Taraba border, recovering an AK-47 assault rifle, an AK-47 magazine, and a stockpile of ammunition. Efforts are ongoing to pursue and neutralize the fleeing suspects.
In a precision operation conducted on December 20, 2024, troops arrested two notorious gunrunners, 31-year-old Kenneth Mayas and 60-year-old Bulus Yilfo, at White House Hotel in Bokkos Town, Plateau State. The suspects were caught attempting to purchase an AK-47 rifle for ₦1,450,000.
Major Zhakom noted that the suspects are currently undergoing interrogation and have provided valuable information to aid further investigations and operations targeting other members of their criminal network.

Some of the recovered arms
Major Zhakom emphasized that 3 Division/Operation Safe Haven remains committed to safeguarding lives and property throughout the yuletide season and beyond. He encouraged members of the public to support security agencies by providing timely and accurate intelligence to combat criminal activities effectively.
As the yuletide season continues, the successful operations conducted by troops of 3 Division/Operation Safe Haven serve as a reassuring reminder of the Nigerian military’s dedication to maintaining peace and security in the region.
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