Police nab arms dealers en route to Kwara

The Nasarawa State Police Command has arrested two suspected arms traffickers attempting to transport a large cache of weapons from Benue State to Ilorin, Kwara State.

According to police spokesperson SP Ramhan Nansel, the interception marks a significant breakthrough in the fight against illegal arms trafficking and terrorism in the region.

Acting on credible intelligence, officers from the anti-kidnapping unit launched a carefully coordinated operation in Lafia, leading to the arrest of the suspects.

The two men, identified as Lawal Sani, 40, a commercial driver from Makwalla in Funtua Local Government Area of Katsina State, and Dahiru Abdullahi, 75, a cattle trader based in Angwan Dosa, Kaduna North, were found in possession of high-powered firearms and ammunition.

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The suspects were travelling in a grey Toyota Hiace bus (registration number AAA 926 XL) when they were intercepted.

Items recovered from the vehicle include one General Purpose Machine Gun (GPMG), three AK-47 rifles, one TAB 06 rifle, 1,096 rounds of 7.62 x 39mm ammunition, 20 rounds of 7.62mm NATO ammunition, four empty magazines, and other related equipment.

During interrogation, the suspects confessed to being paid ₦500,000 to transport the weapons, which authorities say could have been used to arm several criminal groups.

Police say investigations are ongoing to uncover the broader network behind the illegal arms trade.

Commissioner of Police in Nasarawa State reiterated the command’s commitment to ensuring the state does not become a conduit for criminal operations.

“We are determined to dismantle arms trafficking networks and ensure the safety of all Nigerians.

“We urge members of the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities through our dedicated hotlines,” the Commissioner stated.

In a related development, reports from Benue State indicate that armed herdsmen responsible for recent violent attacks are retreating.

This follows the deployment of additional military forces and the visit of the Chief of Army Staff to the region to bolster security efforts.

The attacks have claimed several lives over the past two weeks, but authorities say the situation is gradually coming under control.