Security operatives have successfully intercepted a suspected arms trafficker in Wukari Local Government Area of Taraba State following a joint operation between Nigerian Army troops and the Department of State Services (DSS).
The suspect, identified as 29-year-old Bulyami Shuaib, a native of Belango Village in Karim Lamido Local Government Area, was apprehended after intelligence reports led to a targeted raid on Thursday.
According to security expert Zagazola Malala, who specializes in Lake Chad regional security matters, Shuaib is believed to be a key figure in a wider arms trafficking network that has been under surveillance by security agencies.
During the operation, troops recovered substantial evidence including 362 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, one round of 7.62mm NATO ammunition, and ₦842,100 in cash. Other items seized from the suspect include a black Jing Cheng motorcycle, two mobile phones (Redmi and itel), two silver rings, and a First Bank ATM card.
The Commander of the 6 Brigade and Sector 3 OPWS, Brigadier General Kingsley Chidiebere Uwa, commended the personnel involved for their precision and discipline during the mission. He emphasized that the suspect is currently undergoing interrogation and has been cooperating with investigators, potentially providing valuable intelligence that could help dismantle a broader network of illicit arms dealers operating in the region.
"This arrest represents a significant step in our ongoing efforts to curb the proliferation of illegal arms in Taraba State and the surrounding regions," a security source told BenriNews.
Brigadier General Uwa has appealed to members of the public to continue supporting the military and other security agencies with timely information that could lead to similar successful operations in the future.
The arrest comes amid growing concerns about arms trafficking in Nigeria's North-East region, which has fueled various forms of insecurity including terrorism, banditry, and communal clashes.
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