Stop the guns, stop the violence, northern Christians tell authorities

A northern Christian organisation has called on security agencies to intensify efforts to dismantle networks supplying weapons to terrorists and other criminal groups, saying such action is critical to reducing violent attacks across the country.

The group, the Northern Christian Association (NCA), led by Joseph John Hayab, said recent arrests linked to arms trafficking and support for criminal elements underscored the need for a sustained campaign against those who facilitate insecurity from behind the scenes.

Speaking on behalf of the organisation, its leadership commended security operatives for ongoing efforts to track down individuals involved in the movement of illegal weapons. It noted that while attention is often focused on those carrying out attacks, greater emphasis should be placed on identifying and prosecuting those who provide the arms used in such operations.

According to the group, disrupting the supply chain of weapons would significantly weaken terrorist networks, limit their operational capacity and help improve safety in affected communities.

The association also urged authorities to strengthen intelligence gathering and collaboration among security agencies to expose financiers, traffickers and other collaborators aiding violent groups.

It stressed that lasting peace would require a comprehensive strategy that targets every link in the chain of criminal activity, from recruitment and funding to the procurement and distribution of weapons.

The group further encouraged citizens to support security efforts by providing credible information that could assist in uncovering illegal arms networks.

While expressing concern over continued attacks in parts of the country, it voiced optimism that decisive action against suppliers of weapons and ammunition would help reduce the threat posed by terrorist and bandit groups.

The association reaffirmed its support for lawful measures aimed at restoring peace and security, urging the government to maintain pressure on criminal networks that sustain violence across the nation.