Headquarters 3 Division Nigerian Army and Operation SAFE HAVEN (OPSH) convened a crucial stakeholders’ meeting on July 24, 2024.
Held at the Maxwell Khobe Cantonment in Jos, the gathering saw significant participation from community leaders of Fann District, Barkin Ladi Local Government Area, Plateau State. This strategic meeting aimed to devise effective strategies to curb rising criminal activities, including arms proliferation and cattle rustling, threatening the peace of Fann District.**
The meeting followed a recent operation in Fann District, prompted by the tragic killing of an OPSH officer during a raid at a gunrunners’ hideout in Sangasa on July 10, 2024.
This operation led to the recovery of over 30 assorted weapons and military gear, marking a significant breakthrough in the fight against criminal networks in the area.
In his opening remarks, the Commander of Operation SAFE HAVEN and General Officer Commanding (GOC) 3 Division expressed his dissatisfaction with the persistent criminal activities orchestrated by a few individuals in Fann District. He highlighted the adverse effects these actions have on the community’s stability and security.
The commander emphasized that these criminals, often embedded within the community, act out of self-interest and seek to exploit ethnic and religious sentiments to further their agendas. He called for forgiveness of real or perceived grievances and urged community members to seek peaceful resolutions to conflicts.
Community leaders, including the Gwom Rwei of Gwol, HRH Da Edward Gyang, the Gwom Rwei of Fann, HRH Iliya Dashwei, and Hon. Philip Jwe, a member of the Plateau State House of Assembly representing Barkin Ladi Constituency, acknowledged the community’s shortcomings in instilling good morals in their youth.
They apologized for the incidents and assured their commitment to identifying and bringing perpetrators to justice. They also expressed gratitude for the Army’s willingness to engage with stakeholders to achieve lasting peace in the district.
Barrister Solomon Dalyop, President of the Berom Youth Moulder Association, commended the GOC’s efforts to ensure the safety of lives and property in Plateau State. He pledged the association’s support in collaborating with the youth and security agencies to eradicate criminal activities.
The meeting concluded with a renewed commitment from all participants to intensify efforts in combating criminal elements and fostering a peaceful environment in Fann District. The event was highlighted by remarks from stakeholders, senior officers, and a group photograph, symbolizing unity and collective resolve against crime.
