The army in a statement issued on Wednesday said that the troops during clearance operations on rugged mountainous terrain in the state discovered an isolated structure which turned out to be a weapons fabrication factory situated on a high ground in Pakachi Village, Mangu Local Government Area of the State.
The Nigerian Army has said that in its determination to clear troubled regions of Plateau State in the Northern region of the country, from criminal activities, troops of Operation Safe Haven under Hakorin Damisa IV busted a rifle fabrication factory, arrested one suspect and recovered several arms and ammunition.
The army in a statement issued on Wednesday said that the troops during clearance operations on rugged mountainous terrain in the state discovered an isolated structure which turned out to be a weapons fabrication factory situated on a high ground in Pakachi Village, Mangu Local Government Area of the State.
According to the statement, “During the operation, a significant number of illicit firearms and related equipment were recovered and one suspect apprehended.
“The operation resulted in the arrest of Mr. Tapshak Plangji, a 25-year-old male, suspected to be involved in the illegal activities at the factory.
“The alleged owner of the facility, Mr. Nuhu Meshack, is currently at large and efforts are underway to bring him to justice.
“Items recovered from the facility include: - 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 - 12 Filing Machines - 4 Hammers - 6 Manual Drilling Machines - 2 Electrically Operated Filing Machines - 2 G-Clamps - One Spraying Machine - One Tiger Generator - Assorted Drilling Irons.”
The army stated that the suspect, Mr. Plangji, along with the recovered rifles and other items, is currently in the custody of the troops for further investigation.
“The successful operation is a testament to the commitment of the troops in collaboration with other security agencies in the fight against illegal arms proliferation and criminal activities within our communities.
“It also underscores the importance of collaborative efforts between security agencies and local communities in safeguarding our nation from threats posed by illicit arms production and trafficking,” the statement added.