In a significant security operation, troops of Operation Safe Haven (OPSH) have apprehended seven terror suspects and seized a large cache of sophisticated weapons in the Fann District of Barkin-Ladi local government area of Plateau State. This operation follows a tragic attack on OPSH operatives, resulting in the death of Assistant Superintendent of Immigration, Christopher Luka Agwom, on July 10th.
The Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations, 3rd Division, Nigerian Army, Major Aliyu Danja, led journalists to the community to showcase the recovered weapons and ammunition. The operation, conducted by a tactical team from the 3rd Division of the Nigerian Army and OPSH troops, spanned from July 10 to July 16, targeting gunrunners’ hideouts in the district.
During the press briefing, Maj. Danja detailed the recovery efforts following the attack at Sangasa community, where the team faced resistance from the suspects and their allies. The operation aimed to dismantle illegal arms and ammunition caches in the district.
Among the recovered items were:
- 6 AK-47 rifles
- 20 fabricated AK-47 rifles
- 15 Dane guns
- 5 AK-47 magazines
- 1 AK-47 drum magazine with a capacity of 75 rounds
- 250 rounds of 7.62 mm (Special) ammunition
- 2 cartridges
- 1 bow and 8 arrows
- 2 bottles of gunpowder
- 7 motorcycles
- 1 complete pair of military woodland camouflage dress
- 1 pair of military combat boots
- 2 spears
The operation’s success underscores the presence of a substantial criminal enclave within the Fann District. The military’s efforts aim to eradicate such threats, maintaining that the district’s large cache of illegal arms is a focal point for criminal activity.
In addition to the arrests and weapon seizures, the following individuals have been declared wanted by security agencies for their involvement in criminal activities in the district:
- Mr. Timothy Zakka Dung, also known as Timaya
- Mr. Samn P
- Dachun Job
- Yakubu Ishaku
The public is urged to provide any information on the whereabouts of these suspects to the nearest security outpost.
Major Danja paid tribute to the late Assistant Superintendent of Immigration, Christopher Luka Agwom, lauding his dedication and commitment. Agwom, a native of Risek Community in Jos East Local Government Area, Plateau State, was laid to rest on July 16, 2024. His sacrifice is a somber reminder of the risks faced by security personnel in their mission to safeguard the region.
Operation Safe Haven and the 3rd Division of the Nigerian Army remain resolute in their mandate to eliminate illegal arms and criminal activities within the Joint Operations Area, calling for continued public support and collaboration in these efforts.
For further information, please contact:
Maj. Aliyu Danja
Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations
3rd Division, Nigerian Army
