Suspected kidnappers’ informant arrested with pistol in Plateau

Troops of Sector 8 of Operation Safe Haven (OPSH) have arrested a suspected kidnappers’ informant and recovered a pistol during an operation in Mangu Local Government Area of Plateau State.

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Security sources said the suspect, identified as Yahaya Haruna, was arrested in the early hours of June 7, 2026 at Mungi village following intelligence linking him to criminal elements operating in the area.

According to the sources, troops of Sub-Sector 81 deployed at Gyambwas carried out the operation at about 12:15 a.m. after receiving credible information on the suspect’s alleged activities.

The sources said a search conducted at the suspect’s residence led to the recovery of one pistol believed to be connected to criminal operations.

“Acting on intelligence, troops arrested the suspect and conducted a search of his house, during which one pistol was recovered,” the sources said.

They added that the suspect and the recovered weapon were taken into custody for further investigation.

Security officials said preliminary investigations were ongoing to establish the suspect’s alleged links with kidnapping syndicates and determine the source of the recovered firearm.

They noted that efforts were also being intensified to identify and apprehend other members of the criminal network.

The arrest forms part of ongoing security operations aimed at disrupting kidnapping networks and dismantling criminal support structures across Plateau State.

Authorities urged residents to continue supporting security agencies with credible and timely information that could assist ongoing efforts to combat kidnapping and other forms of criminality.