Police Intensify Crackdown on Gunrunning Across Nigeria, Arrest 63

THE Nigeria Police Force has stepped up efforts to curb the proliferation of illegal firearms, leading to the recovery of 191 prohibited weapons and over 4,255 rounds of live ammunition.

In the latest phase of the operation, security operatives have arrested 63 suspects linked to gunrunning activities across the country.

A key breakthrough was recorded in Plateau State, where eight members of a notorious arms trafficking syndicate were apprehended.

The suspects—Joseph Tara, Victor Ali Pam, Abua Yusuf, Bako Isa, Salamatu Iliya, Solomon Gbarale, Musa Arine, and Bitrus Chung—were arrested following intelligence-led operations by the Force Intelligence Department – Intelligence Response Team (FID-IRT).

The operation uncovered a concealed stockpile of arms hidden within a vehicle doormat belonging to the syndicate.

Recovered weapons from the Plateau State operation included eight fabricated AK-47 rifles, four fabricated revolver guns, four fabricated semi-automatic pistols, 11 AK-47 magazines, and 1,105 rounds of AK-47 ammunition.

Additionally, officers seized 12 rounds of 7.88mm live ammunition, highlighting the scale of the syndicate’s activities.

In a separate incident, police operatives apprehended Amos Sunday Gyang in Plateau State for illegal possession of a semi-automatic pistol.

The suspect claimed to have discovered the weapon hidden inside a cushion in a rented apartment but failed to report it to the authorities.

The police have reiterated that possession of unlicensed firearms is a serious crime, urging the public to report any such discoveries to avoid legal consequences.

The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, has reaffirmed the force’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property.

He assured citizens that security agencies would continue to dismantle criminal networks involved in arms trafficking and other security threats.

Authorities have urged Nigerians to remain vigilant and cooperate with security agencies to ensure the safety of communities.

The police have also pledged to intensify intelligence-driven operations and strengthen partnerships with local and international security organisations to tackle organised crime effectively.

This latest clampdown marks a significant milestone in the ongoing national security campaign, as law enforcement agencies remain resolute in their mission to stem the illegal flow of firearms and protect the nation from the dangers posed by armed criminal groups.