Taskforce arrests 8 suspects, as abducted Plateau monarch regains freedom

The Military taskforce responsible for the maintenance of peace in Plateau State code named Operation Safe Haven (OPSH) said the Sum Pyem Charles Mato Dakat who abducted last Sunday has regained his freedom.

The OPSH also said eight suspects have been arrested in connection with the abduction of the monarch.

It would be recalled that in the early hours of last Sunday 26th December 2021, the Sum Pyem was abducted by unknown gunmen.

Recall that the abductors demanded N500million ransom on December 28th, 2021.

As at the time of filing this report, it could not be ascertained if any ransom was paid.

Confirming the release of the Paramount ruler, Spokesman of OPSH, Major Ishaku Takwa said, “While the Paramount ruler of Gindiri in Mangu Local Government Area of Plateau State, Chief Charles Mato has been with his abductors, the Commander Operation Safe Haven, Major General Ibrahim Ali, placed the troops deployed at Gyanbus on red alert and hot trail of the perpetrators.

“Consequently, eight suspects were arrested in connection with the kidnap incident and are being interrogated.

“Following this development, the paramount ruler early this morning of Friday 31st December, 2021, was released by his abductors.

“Operations Safe Haven is still very much on ground to ensure all those involved in the kidnap of the traditional ruler are arrested and made to face the full wrath of the law,” he stressed.