Troops Arrest Dismissed Police Inspector Turned Arms Racketeer, Recover Weapons in Plateau

Troops operating in Plateau State have arrested a dismissed police inspector allegedly involved in illegal arms trafficking and recovered a cache of weapons during a security operation aimed at curbing the proliferation of firearms in the region.

The suspect, who was reportedly dismissed from the Nigeria Police Force, is accused of engaging in the supply and distribution of weapons to criminal elements operating within and beyond Plateau State.

According to military authorities, the arrest followed intelligence-driven operations that tracked the activities of the suspect and his associates. Security personnel subsequently recovered several weapons and ammunition believed to be linked to the illegal arms network.

The operation forms part of ongoing efforts by security agencies to dismantle criminal syndicates involved in the manufacture, trafficking, and distribution of illicit firearms across the country.

Military sources stated that preliminary investigations revealed the suspect had allegedly established connections with various criminal groups and played a role in facilitating the movement of weapons within the region.

Security operatives also recovered additional items considered relevant to the investigation, while efforts have been intensified to identify and apprehend other members of the network.

Authorities described the arrest as a significant breakthrough in the fight against arms proliferation, noting that the circulation of illegal weapons has contributed to insecurity, banditry, kidnapping, and other violent crimes in several communities.

The suspect remains in custody and is expected to face further investigation and possible prosecution in accordance with the law.

Meanwhile, security agencies have reassured residents of their commitment to sustaining operations against criminal networks and urged members of the public to continue providing credible information that could assist in combating insecurity.

The latest operation underscores ongoing efforts to disrupt illegal arms supply chains and strengthen security across Plateau State and other parts of the country.