The Special Task Force ‘Operation Safe Haven’ has achieved significant milestones in the enforcement of law and order within flashpoints and troubled areas spanning Plateau State, parts of Bauchi State, and Southern Kaduna in Kaduna State.
During a press briefing held at the Headquarters of Operation Safe Haven in Jos on Friday, March 1st, 2024, Deputy Commander, DCP Iyua T, representing Major General A.E Abubakar, Commander of Operation Safe Haven, revealed that these successes were attained within the past two months. The press briefing aimed to highlight the achievements of security agencies in combating criminal elements and restoring peace in the region.
One notable success was the apprehension of suspects linked to the tragic Christmas Eve attacks in Bokkos, Barkin Ladi, and Mangu Local Government Areas of Plateau State. Mr. Shamsu Ibrahim Bakoji, aged 45, was arrested on January 4, 2024, at the Gashish junction checkpoint in Barkin Ladi LGA for his alleged involvement in collaborating with militias to perpetrate attacks in the aforementioned areas.
Furthermore, on January 20, 2024, security agencies arrested five suspects believed to have participated in the Christmas Eve attacks on Bokkos and Barkin Ladi LGAs of Plateau State.
Additionally, Operation Safe Haven disclosed the arrest of suspects involved in a viral video depicting the brutal murder of an unidentified man by a mob in Mangu. Ibrahim Mohammed, aged 52, and Zaharadeen Ibrahim, aged 34, were apprehended on February 2, 2024, for their alleged roles in the recorded incident.
In summary, the operation reported the rescue of seventy-nine civilians from kidnappers and armed robbers, the recovery of one hundred and ten different calibers of weapons, and 1,161 ammunition seized from suspected criminals. Furthermore, thirteen armed criminals were neutralized, and 271 suspects were arrested for various offenses, including kidnapping, armed robbery, gun running, banditry, farm destruction, vandalism, and other crimes. Notably, thirty-three arrested suspects have been prosecuted, and two arms fabrication factories have been dismantled. Additionally, 554 livestock were recovered from rustlers.
Operation Safe Haven expressed gratitude to the residents of Plateau, Kaduna, and Bauchi States for their unwavering support and cooperation in providing credible information that aids security operations. They urged citizens to prioritize peace, refrain from taking the law into their own hands, and seek legal redress for grievances. The operation reiterated its commitment to intensifying efforts in securing law-abiding citizens and maintaining peace and stability in the region.
This is commendable, hope they not release them as usual