The security forces of Operation Safe Haven (OPSH) in Plateau State have raided a gun-making factory and seized a large number of weapons and ammunition in the Mangu local government area.
The OPSH said in a statement by its Media Information Officer, Captain Oya James, that the factory was found during a sweep operation in a hilly area where a lone building used for making guns was located on a high point in Pakachi Village, Mangu Local Government Area of Plateau State.
The statement said that many illegal firearms and related items were recovered, and one suspect was arrested during the operation.
The statement also said that Mr Tapshak Plangji, a 25-year-old man who was suspected to be part of the unlawful activities at the factory, was captured. The alleged owner of the factory, Mr. Nuhu Meshack, is still on the run, and the security forces are trying to catch him.
The statement listed the items that were recovered from the factory as follows: 5 AK 47 rifles, 4 AK 47 magazines, 11 rounds of 7.62mm ammunition, 5 rounds of 9mm ammunition, 21 Dane guns, 4 revolver rifles, 11 pistols with 5 magazines, 17 gun barrels, 6 rounds of 0.44 inch ammunition, a carbide cylinder with accessories, 3 saws, and 12 filing machines.
The statement also mentioned 4 hammers, 6 manual drilling machines, 2 electrically operated filing machines, 2 clamps, one spraying machine, one tiger generator, and various drilling irons as other items that were seized.
The statement said that Mr Plangji and the recovered weapons and items were in the custody of the troops for further investigation.
The statement said that the operation showed the dedication of the troops and their cooperation with other security agencies in combating illegal arms production and distribution and criminal activities in the communities.
The statement added that the operation highlighted the significance of joint efforts between security agencies and local communities in protecting our nation from the dangers of illicit arms manufacturing and trafficking, according to the OPSH.
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