Department of State Services (DSS) has dismantled a suspected arms trafficking syndicate operating in parts of the North-East, leading to the arrest of two alleged couriers and the recovery of dangerous weapons in Gombe State.
In a statement released on Tuesday, the security agency disclosed that its operatives intercepted the suspects at Mararaban Tula in Kaltungo Local Government Area while they were travelling in a grey Toyota Corolla with registration number Taraba JAL475YQ.
The suspects were identified as Muhammed Alhaji Mohammed, 55, and Sani Gesha, 47.
According to the DSS, the operation was the outcome of over three weeks of covert intelligence gathering and surveillance on a notorious arms network believed to be operating across Bauchi State, Gombe, Taraba and Adamawa States.
During the operation, officers recovered two Rocket Propelled Grenade (RPG) warheads, an RPG launcher and other assorted weapons from the suspects.
Security sources revealed that preliminary investigations showed the suspects were transporting the weapons to a contact in Kukawa Village, located in Alkaleri Local Government Area of Bauchi State.
“The suspects reportedly confessed that the weapons were destined for a contact in Kukawa Village, Alkaleri LGA of Bauchi State,” the statement said.
DSS rescues kidnapped six-year-old
In a related development, the DSS also announced the rescue of a six-year-old boy, Mohammed Jabir, who was allegedly abducted under the pretext of being taught how to ride a motorcycle.
The agency said the suspect, identified as Salisu Hussain, has been arrested in connection with the incident.
“The child has since been reunited with his grateful parents,” the DSS added.
The security agency confirmed that all arrested suspects are currently in custody and will be charged to court after the conclusion of investigations.
“All suspects remain in DSS custody and will be charged to court upon conclusion of investigations,” the statement noted.
The DSS reiterated its commitment to safeguarding lives and property and urged residents to continue supporting security agencies with timely and credible information.
The latest operation underscores ongoing efforts by security forces to curb arms trafficking, kidnapping and other criminal activities in parts of Nigeria.
