Troops arrest suspected gunrunner in Plateau, recover weapons

Troops of Operation Safe Haven (OPSH) have arrested a suspected gunrunner in Barkin Ladi LGA of Plateau.

The operatives also seized arms and ammunition from the suspect.

According to Zagazola Makama, a counter-insurgency publication focused on the Lake Chad region, troops intercepted a suspicious ash-coloured Peugeot vehicle.

The publication quoted intelligence sources as saying that troops of Operation Golden Peace, mounted a checkpoint at Kassa community along Jos-Barkin Ladi highway, on February 3.

“The troops intercepted an ash-coloured Peugeot 206 vehicle with Plateau State registration number BLD 322 ST,” the publication said.

“The occupants abandoned the vehicle and fled on sighting the troops. However, after a swift pursuit, the troops apprehended one suspect, identified as Mr. Joseph Davou, 25.

“A search of the abandoned vehicle led to the recovery of the following items: One AK-47 rifle (serial number 06536), One K2 Daewoo assault rifle (serial number 063991), One AK-47 magazine, One K2 magazine, 20 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition and 20 rounds of 5.56mm ammunition.”

The source said the arrested suspect and recovered items are in military custody for investigation, with efforts ongoing to track other syndicate members.