Troops Bust Interstate Arms Trafficking Network, Arrest Dismissed Police Officer In Plateau

Troops Bust Interstate Arms Trafficking Network, Arrest Dismissed Police Officer in Plateau Nigerian troops have dismantled an interstate arms trafficking syndicate and arrested a dismissed police officer in Plateau State during an intelligence-led operation targeting illegal weapons proliferation across the region. Security sources said the operation is part of ongoing efforts to curb the flow of arms fueling banditry, kidnapping, and other violent crimes in the North Central region. According to military authorities, the arrested suspect a dismissed police officer was allegedly found to be actively involved in coordinating the movement of illegal arms across state boundaries. The suspect is believed to be part of a wider criminal network responsible for supplying weapons to armed groups operating in parts of Plateau and neighbouring states.

Troops reportedly acted on credible intelligence that led to the interception and arrest of the suspect, along with the disruption of the trafficking chain During the operation, security forces reportedly recovered arms and ammunition linked to the syndicate. Investigations are ongoing to trace the source of the weapons and identify additional collaborators within the network. Authorities said preliminary findings suggest the group had established routes for moving weapons across multiple states, making it a significant threat to regional security. The Defence Headquarters said the arrest reflects continued efforts by troops to dismantle criminal supply chains and reduce the availability of illegal firearms in circulation. Security officials reaffirmed their commitment to sustaining pressure on armed groups and criminal networks under ongoing nationwide security operations. They also urged members of the public to provide timely intelligence that could assist in identifying and disrupting similar criminals.