Federal troops in Plateau State have arrested a suspected bandit planning to attack unsuspecting commuters in the Gashish District of Barkin Ladi Local Government Area, Plateau State.
It was learnt that the armed bandit was intercepted on Sunday night while in an ambush position along the Kafi Abu-Rakwok Road.
The spokesman for Operation Safe Haven, Major Samson Zhakom, who confirmed the development in a statement on Monday said during the arrest, troops recovered a fabricated AK-47 rifle, an AK-47 magazine, and 30 rounds of 7.62mm (Special) ammunition from the suspect.
According to him, the suspect, along with the recovered weapons and ammunition, is currently in the custody of the troops for further investigation and action.
The statement read, “On 6 July 2025, troops of 3 Division/Operation SAFE HAVEN on night patrol along Kafi Abu-Rakwok Road in Gashish District in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area (LGA) of Plateau State intercepted a suspected militia.
“The suspect was arrested while in ambush position with possible intent of attacking unsuspecting commuters in the area. Items recovered from the suspect include one fabricated AK-47 rifle, one AK-47 magazine and 30 rounds of 7.62 mm (Special) ammunition.
“The suspect and recovered weapon and ammunition are in the custody of troops for further action. Meanwhile, efforts are ongoing to conduct follow-up operations to intercept other members of the criminal syndicate.
“Troops of 3 Division/Operation SAFE HAVEN are intensifying operations against the use of firearms by unauthorized individuals to disrupt the security of the Joint Operations Area.
“We, therefore, 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.”
(Punch)
