The Nigerian Police Force’s Zone 5 Headquarters has announced the arrest of two suspected gunrunners in Edo and Delta states. This was confirmed in a statement issued on Saturday by DSP Tijani Momoh, the Zonal Police Public Relations Officer (ZPPRO).
The arrests were made following a directive from Assistant Inspector-General (AIG) Arungwa Nwazue, who oversees Edo and Delta zones. The directive was part of a broader effort to crack down on illegal arms in the region, especially with the upcoming Edo gubernatorial election.
On Friday, at approximately 05:00 hrs, the Zonal Intelligence Response Squad, led by ASP Mohammed Usman, executed a raid in the Ileh community of Ekpoma, located in Esan West Local Government Area of Edo State. The operation resulted in the arrest of two suspected gunrunners and the recovery of 30 locally fabricated firearms, including 23 single-barrel guns, seven double-barrel guns, and one English-made double-barrel gun.
Additionally, 13 live cartridges, a giant toolbox, and a drill machine used for fabricating the illegal firearms were seized during the operation. Preliminary investigations revealed that the suspects were involved in the business of selling and renting out firearms to kidnappers, armed robbers, and cultists, who used these weapons to terrorize residents of Edo and its surrounding areas.
The AIG has ordered a comprehensive investigation into the case, with the suspects expected to be arraigned in court for prosecution. The police also urged all law-abiding citizens in Edo and Delta states to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities or individuals to the nearest police station.
