Troops in Plateau State have stopped a planned attack on travelers and arrested a suspected bandit in the Gashish District of Barkin Ladi Local Government Area.
The suspect was caught on Sunday night while hiding along the Kafi Abu–Rakwok Road, ready to ambush unsuspecting commuters.
Major Samson Zhakom, the spokesperson for Operation Safe Haven, confirmed the arrest in a statement on Monday. He said the troops recovered a fabricated AK-47 rifle, a magazine, and 30 rounds of 7.62mm (Special) ammunition from the suspect.
“The suspect was arrested while in ambush position with possible intent of attacking unsuspecting commuters in the area,” Zhakom said.
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He added that the suspect and the recovered weapons are now in military custody for further investigation and action.
Zhakom also said that the troops are working to find other members of the criminal group.
“Efforts are ongoing to conduct follow-up operations to intercept other members of the criminal syndicate,” he noted.
The army has promised to keep up the pressure on criminals and stop the illegal use of weapons in the area.
“We urge the public to continually furnish troops with actionable information to carry out the operations successfully, while also addressing the challenge of proliferation of arms,” Zhakom said.