Troops of Operation Safe Haven (OPSH) have arrested a notorious gunrunner and suspected kidnapper, Blessed Paul, in Garaje Community, Jema’a Local Government Area of Kaduna State.
Intelligence sources told Zagazola Makama, a counter-insurgency media expert on Tuesday that the suspect, 22, had been on the wanted list of security agencies for his involvement in gunrunning and kidnapping activities.
The operation, conducted under Operation Lafiyan Jama’a, was a sting operation designed to lure the suspect into a trap.
Paul, who had earlier fled to Abuja to evade arrest, was deceived into believing he was selling an AK-47 rifle for N1.5 million.
He agreed to meet with supposed buyers at a selected location in Garaje Community. On arrival, troops posing as buyers apprehended him and conducted a search.
Recovered items include: One AK-47 rifleOne AK-47 magazine, two rounds of 7.62mm (Special) ammunition
The suspect is currently in military custody and is providing intelligence to security forces to aid further operations against his syndicate.
Relatedly, a revenge attack sparked by a dispute between two communities in Taura LGA, Jigawa State, has resulted in the burning of 24 homes and 16 granaries, leaving villagers displaced.
Intelligence sources hinted that the incident occurred on March 9, 2025, at around 9:45 PM, when a large group of armed youths from Zangon Maje Village stormed the Fulani settlement of Gidan Na Ruwa, chanting war slogans and setting properties ablaze.
The attack forced the residents to flee for their safety, leaving their homes and belongings behind.
It was gathered that earlier that day, two young men, Musa Hussaini, 20, and Shanu Sule, 26, both from Zangon Maje Village, were reportedly beaten with sticks, and their motorcycle was snatched.
In response, they raised an alarm and mobilized members of their community for revenge, leading to the large-scale assault on Gidan Na Ruwa.
The Police immediately rushed to the scene to contain the violence. Security forces found that 24 thatched houses and 16 local granaries had been torched in the attack.
On March 10 at around 8:00 A.M, the police reinforced patrol teams to the affected areas. However, the intervention of the security operatives restored calm and prevented further escalation, and facilitated dialogue between community leaders.
Sources said, so far five suspects have been arrested and taken into custody. The police confirmed that they are providing useful information that could lead to further arrests.
Meanwhile authorities have intensified security patrols in the affected area, while meetings with relevant stakeholders, including traditional and community leaders, are underway to broker peace.
The situation remains under close monitoring.