Troops arrest ‘wanted gunrunner’ in Plateau

The troops of operation Safe Haven (OPSH) in Plateau have arrested a “wanted gunrunner” in the state.

Zagazola Makama, a publication focused on the Lake Chad region, said the suspect was arrested for participating in the December 2023 Christmas Eve attacks on parts of Bokkos and Barkin Ladi LGAs of Plateau state.

In December 2023, more than 115 people were confirmed dead in attacks by gunmen on communities in Bokkos and Barkin-Ladi LGAs of Plateau.

The attacks were said to have occurred while residents were in a preparatory mood for the Christmas celebration.

The gunmen reportedly razed houses and looted properties in the communities, especially in Mushu village.

After the massacre, the federal government promised that the affected communities and victims would get justice.

Subsequently, Kayode Egbetokun, the inspector-general of police (IGP), ordered the deployment of a tactical team and equipment to Plateau.

On January 5, the Plateau police command said eight suspects were arrested over the Christmas Eve attacks.

Makama quoted military sources as saying the troops arrested the culprit on June 14 at Furaka community in the Lamingo axis of Jos LGA.

“During preliminary investigation, the suspect confessed to having coordinated a series of kidnapping activities in Barkin Ladi, Bassa, in Jos east as well as Riyom LGA of Plateau state,” the publication said.

The publication added that the suspect had been handed over to the military intelligence unit for further investigation.