Troops of Operation Save Hub (OPSH) have arrested the prime suspect in the murder of Alhaji Adam Idris Gabud, Aldo of Panyam, Mangu Local Government Area, Plateau State.
OPSH Media Officer, Captain James Oya, disclosed this in a statement on Wednesday, November 8, saying the suspect, Philip Gokas, was arrested at a soccer spectator center in Ogba area of Lagos State.
The Fulani leader’s body was found on Thursday, October 5, 2023, around Boi, along Panksin Bauchi road in Tafawa Balewa Local Government of Bauchi State, after he went missing on September 23.
‘Aldo of Panyam, Mangu Local Government Area of Plateau State, the mastermind of the killing of slain Alhaji Adamu Idris Gabdo, was arrested by troops of Operation Save the Haven (OPSH) Tactical Team.
The arrest of Philip Gokas, also known as Jay Kimo in Lagos State, came after weeks of painstaking investigation to bring the criminal to justice, following a relentless pursuit by OPSH, which led to his pursuit and subsequent arrest in the Ogba area of Lagos State.
The arrest of Mr. Philippe Gokas is a testament to OPSH’s dedication, unwavering commitment, and the effectiveness of our joint efforts. Mr. Gokas has fully confessed to the crime and has provided us with important information that will help us to arrest further individuals involved in this heinous act in the future.
This is a clear warning that criminals will not escape justice, as the security apparatus retains the ability and resilience to use all national resources to pursue those responsible, as directed by the Chief of Defense Staff, General CG Musa.”
After the murder of Aldo Panyam, the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Tao Reed Ragbaja, directed Operation Safe Haven (OPSH) to recover the body, and the OPSH tactical team successfully recovered the body in a remote area of Bauchi State and handed it over to the bereaved family for burial.
The directive further ordered the troops to quickly hunt down the perpetrators and bring them to justice in order to prevent retaliation and a new round of violence after Operation Hakolin Damisa IV had been launched to pacify Plateau.
This breakthrough represents a milestone in the pursuit of justice. We are therefore unwavering in our commitment to maintaining peace and security in Plateau and the surrounding region. We will continue to work tirelessly to prevent the escalation of violence.
General AE Abubakar, Commander of the 3rd Division and Commander of Safe Haven Operations, expresses his sincere appreciation for the support and cooperation of the public throughout this investigation.
The recovery of the late Mr. Ard’s body in Pannyam and the subsequent arrest of Mr. Philip Gokas would not have been possible without the valuable support and intelligence provided by the community.
The GOC further reiterated that this criminal act was committed by a bad section of society and does not represent the will of the good people of Pangyam, who have lived peacefully with their Fulani brothers for many years.
The GOC further commended the troops, especially the tactical team, for their tireless efforts, professionalism, and unwavering dedication during the operation in faraway Lagos.
He assured the public that “our efforts to ensure the safety and security of all citizens remain unwavering and paramount. We will continue to work closely with our stakeholders and engage in ongoing dialogue to foster peace and tranquility in the region.
