Troops from Operation Safe Haven have made a significant arrest in Plateau State, capturing two notorious gunrunners in the Bokkos Local Government Area. The suspects, identified as Matawal Bitrus and Thomas Benedict, were apprehended while attempting to sell ammunition valued at N5 million.
Major Samson Nantip Zhakom, the Military Public Information Officer for Operation Safe Haven, announced the arrests in a statement on Saturday. During the operation, troops also recovered automatic weapons from the suspects.
This successful operation highlights the ongoing efforts to combat illegal arms trade and enhance security in the region. The military continues to work diligently to maintain peace and safety for the communities in Plateau State.
“Barely 72 hours after the arrest of 5 notorious gunrunners leading to the recovery of automatic weapons and about 6,000 rounds of assorted ammunition at Bayameni along Bauchi Road in Jos North LGA of Plateau State on 17 September 2024, Operation SAFE HAVEN conducted follow on operations in Bokkos Town, Bokkos LGA of Plateau State on 18 September 2024,” the statement read.
“During the intelligence-based sting operations, security agencies busted another criminal syndicate while finalizing transactions for sales of arms and ammunition amounting to Five Million Naira (N5,000,000.00) at Banana Island Hotel in Bokkos.
“Consequently, 2 notorious gunrunners identified as Matawal Bitrus and Thomas Benedict were apprehended and the following automatic weapons recovered:
a. Two AK-47 Rifles.
b. One Automatic Pistol.
c. Two AK-47 magazines.
d. One Baretta Pistol Magazine
“The suspects have been taken into custody for interrogation with a view to extracting information in order to arrest other members of the gunrunning syndicate on the run.
“The latest arrest of gunrunners and recovery of arms and ammunition from both Jos North and Bokkos LGAs confirms the assertion that criminality is not defined by any ethno-religious boundary.
“Criminality is a common enemy that we must jointly tackle to afford law-abiding citizens the freedom to carry out their socio-economic endeavours without fear. While it has been proven that the proliferation of firearms is a major driver of security threats, Operation SAFE HAVEN is ever ready in conjunction with other security agencies to clamp down on individuals carrying out this illegal act.
“The good people of Plateau, Bauchi and Southern Kaduna are please enjoined to continue furnishing security agencies with credible information towards arresting criminal elements in order to ensure a crime-free environment.
“For prompt responses to any security threats, our newly activated toll free line on 08000020203 remains available 24hrs every day and also for the passage of information. Be rest assured we will always act promptly. Thank you all.”
