The military has disclosed that some suspects arrested at illegal weapon manufacturing factories in Plateau State confessed to selling locally fabricated firearms to Fulani militias because they offered higher prices.

The revelation was made by the Chief of Staff, Operation Enduring Peace (OPSH), Brig.-Gen. Selong Sule, while briefing a delegation of senior defence correspondents on behalf of the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 3 Division and Commander of Operation Enduring Peace, Maj.-Gen. Folusho Oyinlola, during a media engagement in Jos.

According to Sule, intelligence-driven operations by troops have led to the discovery and dismantling of several illegal gun manufacturing factories operating within the state.

“We have a lot of illegal weapon manufacturing factories. Recently, based on intelligence, we discovered and busted about three or four of such factories,” he said.

The senior military officer said investigations into those arrested produced disturbing confessions.

“Some of the suspects claimed they manufactured weapons for members of their communities to defend themselves. However, some later confessed that they also sold these weapons to Fulani militias because they paid more,” Sule disclosed.

He warned that the continued proliferation of locally manufactured firearms remained one of the greatest threats to peace and security in Plateau State.

“The proliferation of firearms and the activities of illegal weapon manufacturers raise serious security concerns. A weapon in the hands of a non-state actor is a major challenge to our operations,” insecurity.

Sule noted that while many civilians often justify possessing firearms as a means of self-defence, such actions frequently worsen insecurity.

“People tell us they carry weapons to defend themselves, but once weapons circulate among civilians, they easily fall into the hands of criminals who use them to attack communities,” he said.

He explained that troops operating under Operation Enduring Peace are guided by strict Rules of Engagement, constitutional provisions and military discipline, unlike armed civilians who often use weapons indiscriminately.

“Our soldiers are governed by the Constitution, military laws and Rules of Engagement. They cannot simply use force at will. But when civilians illegally possess weapons, there is no such control,” he said.

Sule stressed that beyond kinetic operations, the military was prioritising non-kinetic approaches aimed at winning the confidence of local communities.

“If we do not win the hearts and minds of the people, it becomes difficult to obtain credible intelligence that is essential for successful operations,” he said.

The Chief of Staff also called on the Plateau State Government and community leaders to intensify efforts toward curbing illegal arms production, encouraging voluntary surrender of illicit weapons and strengthening collaboration with security agencies to achieve lasting peace across the state. (Zagazola, excluding headline)

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