Nigerian Army illegal arms Taraba probe links suspects to gun trafficking as troops uncover organised supply network in the state

The Nigerian Army has uncovered an alleged illegal arms trafficking network in Taraba State following the arrest of two suspects linked to the supply and distribution of firearms within the area.

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In a statement on Monday, the Army disclosed that preliminary investigations connected a suspect identified as Adamu to illegal arms dealings in the state.

Items recovered from Adamu included a hunter’s identification card, two ATM cards, a National Identification Card, an Itel keypad mobile phone, rings, a hand band, and assorted charms.

According to the Army, Adamu confessed during interrogation to working with an accomplice identified as “Chmn”, said to be from Shomo Gari in Karim Lamido Local Government Area.

Acting on intelligence obtained from the arrest, troops later apprehended another suspect, 37-year-old James Yangyang, at Tautre Village near Anguwan Bera in Ardo Kola Local Government Area.

Further investigations revealed that Adamu allegedly sold an AK-47 rifle in November 2025 to one Bazoe John of Murbai Village, also in Ardo Kola LGA, pointing to what the Army described as an organised arms supply network operating in the area.

Both suspects remain in military custody and will be handed over to appropriate authorities for prosecution upon the conclusion of investigations.

Commending the operation, the Commander of 6 Brigade Nigerian Army and Sector 3 Operation Whirl Stroke, Brigadier General Kingsley Chidiebere Uwa, praised the troops and intelligence officers for what he described as a decisive intervention.

“6 Brigade will not relent in its resolve to rid Taraba State and its environs of illegal arms dealers and all forms of criminal elements,” Uwa said.

He issued a stern warning to individuals aiding or collaborating with criminals, urging them to desist or face the full weight of the law.

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The commander also appealed to residents to support security agencies with credible information, assuring the public of confidentiality and swift response.