The Fall of a Dismissed Inspector

In a breakthrough that security authorities say could help unravel a dangerous web of illegal arms trafficking fueling violence across parts of Nigeria, troops of Operation Enduring Peace, OPEP, have arrested a dismissed police officer allegedly linked to an interstate weapons supply network serving criminal elements involved in terrorism, banditry and kidnapping.

Arrest Linked to Alleged Arms Trafficking Network

The suspect, identified as Inspector Danjuma Yusuf, formerly attached to Nigeria Police Force Base 7, Abuja, was intercepted by troops in Plateau State while allegedly transporting arms and ammunition suspected to be destined for criminal groups. The arrest, which followed what military authorities described as credible intelligence, highlights the growing challenge of illicit arms proliferation and the role such networks play in sustaining insecurity across communities already grappling with violent attacks.

Intelligence Operation Leads to Interception

According to the Nigerian Army, troops of Sector 6, working in collaboration with Headquarters Operation Enduring Peace, carried out an intelligence-led operation on Sunday, June 14, 2026, after receiving information about the movement of illegal weapons across state boundaries. Military authorities disclosed that the suspect was travelling in a white Peugeot vehicle from Jos South toward the Makera axis of Riyom Local Government Area when he was placed under surveillance and subsequently intercepted at a military checkpoint.

Weapons and Other Items Recovered

A search of the vehicle reportedly led to the recovery of two locally fabricated pistols, 167 rounds of 9mm ammunition, three cans of pepper spray and a jack knife. Other items recovered included two mobile phones, two cutlasses, a police staff tag, photographs showing the suspect in police uniform, two ATM cards, a National Identification Number, NIN, card and cash totaling N73,300.

For many residents of Plateau and neighboring states who have witnessed years of attacks, kidnappings and armed violence, the arrest represents more than the seizure of weapons. It offers a glimpse into the hidden networks that continue to arm criminal groups despite sustained security operations. Military authorities described the suspect as a significant player in an interstate trafficking syndicate.

Army Identifies Suspect as Dismissed Inspector

Preliminary findings identified the suspect as Inspector Danjuma Yusuf, formerly of Nigeria Police Force Base 7, Abuja, who had been dismissed from service

— the Army said.

Further intelligence indicates that the suspect is a key figure in an interstate arms trafficking syndicate, allegedly supplying weapons to criminal elements involved in terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and other violent crimes.

— the Army further stated

Security experts have repeatedly warned that the proliferation of small arms remains one of the major drivers of insecurity across the country, enabling criminal groups to sustain operations and inflict devastating consequences on vulnerable communities. The Army noted that the suspect remains in military custody while investigations continue to identify members of the alleged network, including financiers, collaborators and supply channels.

Investigators Pursue Network Associates

He is currently in the custody of the troops where further interrogation is ongoing to uncover his network, including associates, financiers and supply channels

— the statement added.

Military authorities described the arrest as a major disruption of illegal arms trafficking activities and a testament to the effectiveness of intelligence-driven operations.

His arrest marks a significant disruption of illegal arms trafficking networks. It underscores the effectiveness of ongoing intelligence-driven military operations aimed at curbing the proliferation of illicit weapons

— the Army stated.

The development comes amid renewed efforts by security agencies to stem the flow of illegal arms into communities affected by violent crime and insurgency. Reaffirming its commitment to national security, the Nigerian Army said it would continue to work closely with other security agencies to dismantle criminal networks and deny armed groups access to weapons.

The Nigerian Army, in collaboration with other security agencies, remains committed to safeguarding lives and property while sustaining offensive operations against all threats to national security

— the statement said.

The Army also appealed to citizens to support security operations through the provision of timely and credible information. As investigations continue, residents hope the arrest will lead authorities beyond one suspect and closer to the wider network responsible for placing deadly weapons in the hands of criminals, whose activities have left countless families displaced, traumatized and grieving across the country.

Other items recovered included two mobile phones, two cutlasses, a police staff tag, photographs showing the suspect in police uniform, two ATM cards, a National Identification Number, NIN, card and cash totaling N73,300.