Benue State Police Command has arrested a 20-year-old suspected arms supplier in Guma Local Government Area and recovered 115 rounds of live ammunition during a stop-and-search operation.
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MAKURDI, BENUE STATE — Operatives of the Benue State Police Command have arrested a 20-year-old suspected arms supplier, identified as Joro Jarkata, during a stop-and-search operation in Guma Local Government Area of the state.
Police authorities said the arrest followed an operation carried out on Tuesday, July 28, when officers intercepted two men riding on a motorcycle along a major route in the area.
According to the command, one of the suspects fled into a nearby bush upon sighting the police, while Jarkata was apprehended at the scene.
A search conducted on the suspect led to the recovery of 115 rounds of live 7.62mm ammunition, allegedly concealed in his possession.
The police said the recovered ammunition has been taken into custody, while the suspect is currently undergoing interrogation.
The case has since been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) in Makurdi for further investigation.
The Commissioner of Police in Benue State, CP Cletus Nwadiogbu, commended the officers involved in the operation for their vigilance and professionalism.
He reiterated the command's commitment to tackling illegal arms trafficking and other criminal activities across the state.
The police boss also appealed to residents to remain vigilant and continue providing useful information that could help security agencies combat crime.
The arrest comes amid heightened security concerns in parts of Benue State following a series of attacks, kidnappings and communal violence in recent weeks.
Security experts have repeatedly warned that the proliferation of illegal firearms remains one of the major drivers of insecurity in the country.
Analysts believe that disrupting the supply of weapons to criminal groups could significantly reduce violent attacks in vulnerable communities.
The recovery of ammunition and the arrest of suspected arms traffickers are seen as critical steps in efforts to curb insecurity in Benue and neighbouring states.
Authorities say tackling illegal arms networks is essential to restoring peace and protecting lives and property.
Police investigators are expected to intensify efforts to identify and arrest other suspects linked to the alleged arms supply network.
The Benue State Police Command has assured residents that operations against illegal arms dealers and other criminal elements will continue.
Prime Brief Media will provide updates as more details emerge.
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