Troops raid illegal arms factory, arrest fabricator in Plateau
By: Zagazola Makama
Troops of 3 Division/Joint Task Force Operation Enduring Peace have raided an illegal arms manufacturing factory in Heipang District of Barkin Ladi Local Government Area of Plateau.
The operation, which took place on Wednesday, followed credible intelligence on the activities of an arms fabrication syndicate operating in the area.
Maj. Samson Zhakom, Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, 3 Division, said in a statement that one weapon fabricator was arrested, while others fled the scene before the arrival of the troops.
He said a thorough search of the facility led to the recovery of 12 assorted fabricated weapons, one fabricated pistol, 19 rounds of PKT ammunition, 12 cartridges, 10 rounds of 7.62mm (Special) ammunition, 10 rounds of 9mm ammunition, four rounds of 7.62mm (NATO), and one round of QJC ammunition.
Other items recovered include a smoke grenade, two fragmental jackets, a Motorola hand-held radio, a jack knife, and a bucket containing various medicines.
Zhakom said the suspect and recovered items were in custody for further action, while efforts were ongoing to track down the fleeing members of the syndicate.
He reiterated the commitment of the Nigerian Army to mopping up illicit arms in circulation in its joint operations area and ensuring peace and security across Plateau and the North-Central region.
