In a significant breakthrough in the fight against illegal arms trafficking, troops from Operation Safe Haven have arrested two notorious gunrunners and seized a cache of automatic weapons in Plateau State. This operation follows closely on the heels of the apprehension of five gunrunners just three days earlier in Jos North Local Government Area.
On September 18, 2024, intelligence-led operations at the Banana Island Hotel in Bokkos Town led to the arrest of Matawal Bitrus and Thomas Benedict, who were reportedly finalizing the sale of arms valued at approximately Five Million Naira (₦5,000,000). Security forces recovered two AK-47 rifles, one automatic pistol, and three AK-47 magazines during the operation.
The suspects are currently in custody for interrogation, with authorities aiming to uncover information that could lead to the arrest of additional members of the criminal syndicate. The recent arrests and arms recoveries highlight a persistent threat of criminal activity that transcends ethno-religious lines, emphasizing the need for a united front against such threats.
“Criminality is a common enemy that we must jointly tackle to afford law-abiding citizens the freedom to carry out their socio-economic endeavors without fear,” stated Major Samson Nantip Zhakom, Military Public Information Officer for Operation Safe Haven. He reiterated the importance of community involvement in providing credible information to assist security agencies in their operations.
Operation Safe Haven remains committed to combating the proliferation of firearms, which is a major contributor to security challenges in the region. The military has called upon the citizens of Plateau, Bauchi, and Southern Kaduna to actively participate in efforts to ensure a safer environment.
As the operation continues, the security agencies are resolute in their mission to disrupt illegal arms trafficking and enhance the safety of the communities they serve.
The Nigerian Insurers Association (NIA) is pleased to announce plans to honour its past Governing Council Members and Director General in recognition of their invaluable contributions to the growth and development of the Association.
This initiative underscores the Association’s deep appreciation for the visionary leadership, dedication, and selfless service of those who have steered the affairs of the NIA over the years. Their efforts have laid a solid
foundation for the Association’s achievements and strengthened its role as the collective voice of the insurance industry.
The event is scheduled to take place on Thursday,30 April 2026, at the Insurers House, 42 Saka Tinubu Street, Victoria Island, Lagos, under the theme, “Service as the Cornerstone of Leadership and Institutional Legacy.”
Speaking on the significance of the initiative, the Chairman of the NIA, Mr. Kunle Ahmed, noted that honouring past Governing Council Members and Director Generals is not only a mark of respect but also a way of preserving the Association’s rich legacy.
He said that their guidance and commitment have been instrumental in shaping policies, fostering industry collaboration, and promoting public confidence in insurance as a tool for national development.
Kunle emphasized that the structures laid down by the past leaders, the values they upheld, and the sacrifices they made continue to resonate in the Association’s present achievements.
He noted: “Institutions are built over time, but their true strength lies in the people who devote themselves in service.
“This event is our way of pausing to honour those whose leadership and sacrifices created the pathway we now walk. Their legacy is not confined to history—it lives on in every milestone we celebrate today.”
The NIA Chairman further stated that by celebrating the Association’s past leaders, the NIA preserves its history, reinforces its values, and set a clear benchmark for future leadership.
According to him, the progress the Association enjoy today is firmly anchored in the foresight and dedication of its past leaders.
“Without question, they remain the bedrock of the NIA’s enduring relevance and success, he said.”
The ceremony will bring together industry stakeholders, regulators, and partners to celebrate these distinguished leaders and reaffirm the Association’s commitment to excellence, innovation, and sustainable growth.
The NIA looks forward to this memorable occasion as it continues to build on the foundations laid by its past leaders while charting new paths for the future of insurance in Nigeria.
A magistrates’ court in Jos on Tuesday sentenced a 40-year-old painter, Dominic Maitala, to two years’ imprisonment for stealing a car.
The magistrate, Irene Pati, sentenced the convict, who pleaded guilty to the charge.
Ms Pati, however, gave the convict the option of a N100,000 fine and ordered him to pay N7 million in compensation and, in default, to serve an additional year in prison.
Earlier, the prosecutor, Ibrahim Gokwat, told the court that the complainant, Peter Walar, reported the case on March 17 at the Area Command Metro Police Station.
Mr Gokwat said the convict was told to watch the car at the garage, but he took the car away and claimed he was drunk and did not know who stole the car from his house, where he had parked it overnight.