The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has arrested five suspects allegedly involved in trans-border gunrunning and seized a significant cache of weapons, including 17 rifles, a revolver pistol, and various ammunition, according to reports by Igbere TV.
The arrested individuals—Adamu Noma, Matthew Audu, Andrew Poyi, Aminu Sani, and Aminu Talha—were taken into custody on November 18, 2024, by operatives from the Force Intelligence Bureau Intelligence Response Team (FID-IRT).
During a thorough search of their premises, authorities recovered 10 locally fabricated AK-47 rifles, five Israeli-made AK-47 rifles, a revolver pistol, a pump-action rifle, and 20 rounds of AK-47 ammunition. Additionally, a welding machine suspected to be used in the manufacturing of illegal weapons was found.
This successful operation represents a significant step in the NPF’s ongoing efforts to combat crime and enhance national security. The Inspector-General of Police, Dr. Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, commended the operatives for their diligence and reiterated his directive to intensify the crackdown on illegal arms. He emphasized the importance of dismantling local networks involved in the production and distribution of illicit weapons.
In an official statement, the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, reaffirmed the NPF’s commitment to fighting crime and urged citizens to assist law enforcement by providing credible information. He stressed that public cooperation is crucial to eradicating illegal arms and other criminal activities from communities.