The Nasarawa State Police Command successfully intercepted a significant arms trafficking operation on June 4, 2025, arresting two suspects, Dahiru Abdullahi, 75, and Lawal Sani, 40. The suspects were allegedly transporting a large cache of firearms and ammunition from Benue State to Ilorin, Kwara State. The arrest, described as a major breakthrough in the fight against illegal arms trafficking, was carried out by the Anti-Kidnapping Unit in Lafia, the state capital, based on credible and actionable intelligence around 03:09hrs.

Dahiru Abdullahi, a cattle trader from Angwan Dosa, Kaduna North LGA, Kaduna State, known to operate within Keffi Cattle Market in Nasarawa State, and Lawal Sani, a commercial bus driver from Makwalla area, Funtua LGA, Katsina State, were apprehended in a grey Toyota Hiace bus with registration number AAA 926 XL. Police officials stated that the meticulously executed operation led to the capture of the suspects as they were transiting through Lafia.

A substantial arsenal was recovered from their vehicle. The seized items included one General Purpose Machine Gun (GPMG), three AK-47 rifles, one TAB 06 rifle, 1,096 rounds of 7.62 x 39mm ammunition, 20 rounds of 7.62mm NATO calibre ammunition, and four empty magazines. This significant seizure underscores the potential threat these weapons posed if they had reached their intended destination.

During interrogation, Abdullahi and Sani reportedly confessed to their involvement in the trafficking scheme. They admitted to being paid N500,000 to transport the weapons from Benue State to Ilorin, Kwara State. Authorities believe this consignment was intended to arm criminal syndicates across the region. There were also indications that such arms movements could be linked to armed groups repositioning due to increased military operations in Benue State, particularly after the Chief of Army Staff's focus on curbing terror attacks in that area.

Police Public Relations Officer, SP Ramhan Nansel, confirmed the arrests and provided details of the seizure in official statements. Commissioner of Police Shetima Jauro Mohammed hailed the operation and emphasized the command's unwavering stance against crime, stating, “This arrest sends a clear message that Nasarawa State will not be used as a corridor for criminal activity. We remain resolute in our mission to dismantle illegal arms networks and safeguard the lives and property of our citizens.” He further reiterated that Nasarawa State is not a safe haven for criminal elements and the police are committed to protecting innocent Nigerians.

A full-scale investigation has been launched to identify and apprehend other members of this arms trafficking network. The Nasarawa State Police Command also urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the authorities through the official hotlines: 08112692680, 08032564469, 08036157659, 08037461715, and 07032532391, assuring citizens of continued and decisive action against any threats to peace and security.