Troops of Operation Safe Haven (OPSH), a special military task force responsible for maintaining peace in Plateau and parts of Bauchi and Kaduna States, have apprehended 34 individuals suspected of engaging in illegal arms trade, kidnapping, cattle rustling, and other criminal activities.
The media officer of the operation, Capt. James Oya, confirmed the development in a statement made available to newsmen in Jos on Tuesday.
According to him, the successful arrests were made during distinct operations carried out in various locations falling under the jurisdiction of Operation Safe Haven. Capt. Oya further clarified that these operations took place between October 22 and October 29.
“Within the week, a total of 34 suspects – seven of them suspected kidnappers, four suspected gunrunners, and three in connection with attacks on villages – were arrested.
“Three suspects were arrested over cattle rustling, two suspects over illicit drugs peddling and four others over attacks on vulnerable communities.
“We rescued three kidnap victims and responded to 36 distress calls within the period under review,” he said.
The army spokesperson said that the suspects would be charged to court when investigations are concluded, noting that OPSH Commander, Maj.-Gen. Abdusalam Abubakar had called on residents of its areas of operation to support its bid towards tackling security challenges currently confronting them.
Oya said that the commander had assured the people of its readiness to provide adequate security of lives and property at all times.