In a major breakthrough, troops of Operation Safe Haven in Plateau State dismantled a notorious kidnappers’ den in Bassa Local Government Area, capturing a high-profile kingpin, Mohammed Musa, popularly known as Mamman. The operation also led to the arrest of an accomplice, Mallam Alhassan Samaila, and the recovery of a significant cache of ammunition.
Intelligence-Led Raid in Rafiki Community
The successful operation was conducted in Rafiki community as part of ongoing efforts to ensure safety during the harvest season and the yuletide festivities. Major Samson Zhakom, spokesman for the Military Taskforce, disclosed details of the raid in a statement on Wednesday, highlighting its importance in bolstering security in Plateau State and neighboring regions.
“In continuation of robust efforts to ensure a secure harvest and peaceful yuletide celebrations in the Joint Operations Area as directed by the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. OO Oluyede, troops of 3 Division/Operation SAFE HAVEN on Operation GOLDEN PEACE conducted an intelligence-based raid on identified criminal hideouts in the Rafiki General Area of Bassa Local Government Area, Plateau State, with positive outcomes,” the statement read.
During the operation on December 10, 2024, Mohammed Musa and his collaborator, Mallam Alhassan Samaila, were apprehended. A search of their hideout revealed 439 rounds of 7.62 mm (Special) ammunition concealed in a four-liter engine oil gallon.
Smuggling Network Uncovered
Preliminary investigations revealed that the suspects operated under the guise of transporters to smuggle ammunition to bandits across Plateau, Kaduna, and Zamfara states. Major Zhakom noted that the suspects have been making “useful confessions,” shedding light on the wider criminal network. Follow-up operations are underway to apprehend other members of the syndicate and recover additional arms and ammunition.
“This operation underscores our commitment to dismantling criminal networks and safeguarding lives and property in the Joint Operations Area,” Zhakom stated.
Enhanced Operations Through Strategic Deployment
The operation was bolstered by critical combat enablers recently deployed by the Chief of Defence Staff and the Chief of Army Staff. These resources have significantly enhanced the effectiveness of security operations in Plateau State, enabling the military task force to respond swiftly and decisively to threats.
Operation Safe Haven has been a key player in mitigating security challenges in the region, working tirelessly to address issues such as banditry, kidnappings, and other criminal activities. The latest raid is part of Operation GOLDEN PEACE, which focuses on intelligence-driven missions to root out criminal elements and restore peace in conflict-prone areas.
Call for Public Cooperation
The military task force emphasized the importance of public collaboration in the fight against crime. Zhakom appealed to citizens to support security agencies by providing timely and actionable intelligence to help eradicate criminal activities.
“Members of the public are enjoined to cooperate with security agencies by providing timely intelligence to facilitate the eradication of criminalities within the Joint Operations Area,” Zhakom added.
Reinforcing Security for the Festive Season
As the yuletide season approaches, security agencies are intensifying efforts to ensure the safety of citizens and the uninterrupted celebration of the holidays. The success of the Rafiki raid demonstrates the effectiveness of intelligence-based operations and the dedication of troops to maintaining peace and order.
The capture of Mohammed Musa and the dismantling of his network is expected to disrupt the supply chain of ammunition to bandits, thereby weakening their operational capabilities. It also sends a strong message to other criminal elements that law enforcement agencies are resolute in their mission to protect the region.
A United Front Against Crime
The collaboration between the military, law enforcement, and the public is crucial in achieving long-term security in Plateau State and beyond. As follow-up operations continue, the public’s role in providing intelligence and supporting the efforts of security agencies remains indispensable.
The success of this operation is a significant step toward creating a safer environment for residents, farmers, and travelers in the region. By dismantling criminal networks and enhancing cooperation with local communities, Operation Safe Haven and its partners are paving the way for sustained peace and development in Plateau State and its environs.
