Troops uncover ‘illegal weapon factory’ in Plateau, arrest suspect

Troops of operation safe haven (OPSH) has uncovered an illegal weapon manufacturing factory in Pakachi community in Mangu LGA of Plateau state.

James Oya, media officer of the operation, said the troops also recovered various types of arms and ammunition, and arrested one suspect during the operation.

‘In our determination to clear troubled areas of Plateau from criminal activities, our troops during a clearance operations on rugged mountainous terrain discovered an isolated structure which turned out to be a weapon fabrication factory situated on a high ground at Pakachi village of Mangu,” Oya said.

“During the operation, a significant number of illicit firearms and related equipment were recovered and one suspect apprehended.

“The alleged owner of the facility, Mr Nuhu Meshach, is currently at large and efforts are underway to bring him to justice.”

Oya said some of the recovered weapons include five AK 47 rifles, four AK 47 magazines, 11 rounds of 7.62mm and five rounds of 9mm ammunition, 21 dane gun, four revolver rifles, and 11 pistols with five magazines.

He added that other weapons recovered were 17 gun barrels, six rounds of 0.44 inch ammunition, a carbide cylinder with accessories, and six drilling machines, among others.

Oya said the suspect, alongside the recovered weapons and other items, are currently in the custody of the troops for further investigation.

He described the successful operation as a testament to the commitment of the troops, in collaboration with other security agencies, in the ongoing fight against the proliferation of arms and other criminal activities in the state.