Troops of 3 Division of the Nigerian Army, in conjunction with the Joint Task Force, Operation Enduring Peace, OPEP, have dismantled a gun-running syndicate operating in Vom, Jos South Local Government Area of Plateau State.
Media Information Officer of OPEP, Major Samson Zhakom, who confirmed the development in a statement yesterday, said the operation was made possible through superior intelligence gathering by troops who promised to ensure that residents of the state enjoy a peaceful yuletide.
Apart from disrupting the operations of the gun runners, three suspects were arrested, while a cache of arms and items, including two locally fabricated AK-47 rifles, one round of 7.62mm (special) ammunition, two knives and three mobile phones were recovered from the gang.
“In furtherance of sustained efforts to deny criminal elements freedom of action and to ensure a peaceful yuletide within the Joint Operations Area, troops of 3 Division/Joint Task Force conducted a successful intelligence-led operation against a suspected gunrunning network in Vom, Jos South Local Government Area of Plateau State, in the early hours of yesterday,” Major Zhakom said.
He stated that while withdrawing from the area, troops encountered resistance from misguided women and youths who blocked the road and fired at the troops, and pelted personnel and operational vehicles with stones.
“In the ensuing encounter, one officer sustained injuries, while a Hilux vehicle radiator and the windscreen of a gun truck were damaged. The situation was swiftly contained and troops maintained control and discipline throughout the engagement.
“The arrested suspects and recovered arms and ammunition are currently in custody for further investigation, while troops are conducting follow-up operations to apprehend other members of the criminal syndicate and forestall any attempt at re-grouping.”
Zhakom stressed that the successful operation underscores the resolve of the Joint Task Force to proactively dismantle criminal supply chains and prevent the proliferation of illicit weapons that threaten public safety.
“Troops of 3 Division/JTF Operation Enduring Peace remain resolute in the discharge of their lawful mandate to safeguard lives and property within the Joint Operations Area.
“While the cooperation of law-abiding citizens is indispensable to the success of ongoing security operations, individuals and groups are hereby warned against obstructing troops in the performance of their lawful duties, as such actions constitute serious security breaches and will be dealt with in accordance with extant laws.
“Together, through vigilance, discipline and collective responsibility, enduring peace and stability will continue to be consolidated across Plateau State and beyond,” he stated.
