In a high-stakes gathering that brought together traditional leaders and community representatives from 13 districts in Barikin Ladi, Riyom, and Jos South Local Government Areas of Plateau State, Major General AE Abubakar, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the 3rd Division and Commander of Operation SAFE HAVEN (OPSH), sounded the alarm on the perilous role played by criminal syndicates in exacerbating the ongoing crisis in the region. Urging for immediate collective action, Major General Abubakar emphasized the critical need for collaboration among all stakeholders to root out these criminal elements that have infiltrated the communities.
Addressing the audience at the meeting held at the Headquarters of the 3rd Division in Jos, the GOC/Commander OPSH highlighted the devastating consequences of these criminal networks on the stability and security of the Plateau. He pointed out that activities such as arms trafficking, armed robbery, cattle rustling, cattle poisoning, drug smuggling, willful farm destruction, and organized crime have been continually fanning the flames of tension and perpetuating the crisis.
Major General Abubakar expressed deep concern over the far-reaching impact of these criminal syndicates, which has led to loss of lives, property destruction, and the displacement of innocent citizens due to reprisal attacks stemming from the activities of these criminal elements. He stressed that these criminals transcended ethno-religious boundaries and described them as highly organized syndicates. The GOC underscored the critical role of collaboration in tackling these issues to ensure long-lasting peace and development in Plateau State.
Acknowledging the importance of a united front, the Commander called for cooperation among traditional rulers, community leaders, security agencies, and government institutions. He noted the existing convergence among criminals, which has been exacerbated by poor parenting and the absence of robust traditional institutions to rein in the youth. He urged all stakeholders to work together to disrupt the activities of these criminal syndicates, share intelligence, and support law enforcement efforts aimed at achieving sustainable peace and security for the people. He asserted, “We cannot allow a handful of criminals pursuing their selfish interests to disrupt the relative peace of our society.”
The Commander of Operation SAFE HAVEN made a heartfelt appeal to citizens to report any suspicious activities and provide information that could aid in identifying and apprehending those involved in criminal syndicates. He revealed that over the past month, more than 60 suspects have been arrested, many neutralized, and a significant cache of dangerous weapons and ammunition have been recovered through sting operations conducted by OPSH troops in collaboration with local security networks.
The stakeholders’ meeting concluded with a renewed commitment from all participants to intensify their efforts in combating the criminal elements responsible for perpetuating violence in the state. Major General AE Abubakar expressed optimism that through collective action and coordination, Plateau State would emerge stronger, enjoying sustained peace, and paving the way for progress and prosperity.
The meeting was marked by insightful comments from traditional rulers and concluded with group photographs to symbolize the unity and determination of all stakeholders in their quest for lasting peace in Plateau State.
