Operatives of Nigeria’s Department of State Services (DSS) have dismantled a suspected arms trafficking operation in Gombe State, arresting two alleged couriers and recovering Rocket Propelled Grenade (RPG) warheads, an RPG launcher and other weapons-related materials.
The suspects, identified as 55-year-old Muhammed Alhaji Mohammed and 47-year-old Sani Gesha, were apprehended at Mararaban Tula in Kaltungo Local Government Area. They were intercepted while traveling in a grey Toyota Corolla bearing registration number Taraba JAL475YQ.
Security sources revealed that the arrests came after weeks of covert surveillance targeting a bandit-linked arms trafficking syndicate believed to be operating across several North-East states, including Bauchi, Gombe, Taraba and Adamawa.
According to the sources, DSS operatives closely monitored the network for more than three weeks before executing the operation.
“The operatives tracked the syndicate extensively before carrying out a well-coordinated operation. The suspects were arrested in possession of a significant cache of arms and ammunition,” a source disclosed.
Recovered items reportedly include two RPG warheads, one RPG launcher and other materials suspected to be intended for bandit activities in the region.
During preliminary interrogation, the suspects allegedly confessed that the weapons were to be delivered to an individual identified as Ardo Hamma Ari, said to reside in Kukawa Village, Alkaleri Local Government Area of Bauchi State.
In a separate but related security intervention, DSS operatives rescued a six-year-old boy, Mohammed Jabir, from Gyada Village in Talase, Balanga Local Government Area.
Security officials said the child was allegedly lured away by a suspect, Salisu Hussain, under the guise of teaching him how to ride a motorcycle. Upon receiving a report of the suspected abduction, DSS personnel swiftly launched an operation that led to the boy’s safe rescue and the arrest of the suspect.
The child has since been reunited with his family, who expressed appreciation to security operatives for their prompt response and professionalism.
Authorities confirmed that all suspects are currently in DSS custody and will be charged to court upon conclusion of investigations.
