Troops of Operation Enduring Peace have arrested a suspected arms dealer and recovered an AK-47 rifle, two magazines and other items during a security operation in Bassa Local Government Area of Plateau State.
The operation was conducted on Friday, August 21, following intelligence gathered after the abduction of a medical doctor, Dr Abraham Owoicho, in the area on August 19.
According to security sources who spoke to security analyst Zagazola Makama, troops from Sector 1, supported by members of the Vigilante Group of Nigeria and local hunters, raided Kisayi and Dogon Daji settlements following information on the activities of suspected criminals in the communities.
The sources said several men fled into the surrounding bush when they noticed the arrival of the security personnel, leaving women and children behind.
During the operation, troops arrested a 30-year-old woman, Halima Ibrahim, who was allegedly attempting to flee with two AK-47 magazines.
Security personnel subsequently cordoned off and searched her residence in Kisayi B Village, where they recovered an AK-47 rifle.
The suspect reportedly told investigators during preliminary questioning that the weapon belonged to her husband, identified as Ibrahim.
Other items recovered from the residence included a locally manufactured revolver pistol, a military jungle hat and three mobile phones.
The suspect and recovered items have been handed over to the military for further investigation.
Investigators are expected to determine the source of the firearms, establish how they came into the suspect’s possession and examine possible links to kidnapping and other criminal networks operating in the area.
The operation is part of intensified efforts by security agencies to disrupt kidnapping syndicates and illegal arms trafficking in Plateau State following recent abductions in Bassa.
Credit: Zagazola Makama
