Operation Safe Haven Unveils Illegal Gun Manufacturing Factory and Arrests Notorious Gunrunner in Kaduna State

The Nigerian Army's Operation Safe Haven (OPSH) on Operation Hakorin Damisa IV has exposed an illicit gun manufacturing facility in Kafanchan, Jema'a Local Government Area of Kaduna State. This significant discovery and subsequent apprehension of a wanted gunrunner, Napoleon John, followed a week-long intelligence operation.

In an official statement released on Friday, September 22, 2023, the Nigerian Army detailed the successful operation and affirmed its commitment to decisively address criminal activities and eliminate illegal weapons within the OPSH Joint Operations Area. Napoleon John, a wanted criminal, confessed to his involvement in gunrunning and assisted troops in locating the hidden factory, where various firearms were being sold by another culprit named Monday Dunia.

The thorough search of the concealed factory yielded a total of 22 different weapons, including 7 pistols, 2 locally fabricated AK-47 rifles, 2 military-grade AK-47 rifles, 9 revolvers, and one submachine gun, among others. Additionally, machine tools, a gas cylinder, and rounds of ammunition were recovered from the premises. Following this, a subsequent raid in Adua 1 village in Kafanchan led to the seizure of additional weaponry, ammunition, combat gear, and various equipment.

Despite the success of the operation, the major kingpin remains at large; however, efforts are underway to apprehend the individual and ensure justice is served. The GOC/Commander OPSH praised the troops for their resilience and urged the public to continue providing actionable information to aid in the fight against criminality. General AE Abubakar also warned criminals to abandon unlawful activities and urged the public to support the lawful means of addressing grievances.

This latest operation reflects the determination of security forces to curtail illegal arms proliferation and enhance public safety in the region.