The Department of State Services (DSS) has arrested a suspected arms courier in Kano State while allegedly transporting a cache of weapons believed to be destined for criminal elements.
According to a statement by the Kano State Command of the DSS, the suspect, identified as Muhammad Abubakar, 30, was apprehended in the Gezawa Local Government Area during an intelligence-led operation.
Security operatives reportedly recovered three AK-47 rifles, four Rocket-Propelled Grenade (RPG) tubes, and two magazines from the suspect at the time of his arrest.
Preliminary investigations revealed that Abubakar allegedly departed Magatari in Jigawa State and was en route to Funtua in Katsina State, where he was expected to deliver the weapons to undisclosed recipients.
The DSS disclosed that ongoing investigations are focused on dismantling the wider arms trafficking network linked to the suspect, with efforts underway to track down and arrest other accomplices involved in the operation.
During interrogation, the suspect reportedly confessed to his role in the illegal arms movement. He stated that he resides in Mokwa, Niger State, and works as a commercial transporter, regularly conveying passengers between Kano and Abuja.
According to his account, an unidentified individual repeatedly contacted him and persuaded him to travel to Magatari to collect the firearms. He admitted that he eventually agreed and took possession of the weapons for delivery.
The DSS further revealed that the suspect, who is married with two children, was expecting a payment of ₦450,000 upon successful delivery of the arms.
Security authorities have reiterated their commitment to combating the proliferation of illegal weapons and urged members of the public to remain vigilant and provide credible information that could aid efforts to curb arms trafficking and related criminal activities across the country.
Tags
Crime