Police recover 30 firearms in Kaduna anti-Bandit operations

The Kaduna State Police Command says it has intensified operations against banditry and illegal arms trafficking, resulting in the recovery of at least 30 firearms and the arrest of several suspects across the state.

Commissioner of Police, Rabiu Muhammad, told journalists in Kaduna on Monday that the successes were recorded within two weeks through intelligence-led operations in Kajuru, Tafa, Igabi and Kauru local government areas.

He said security operatives engaged suspected bandits in gun battles, dismantled camps and arrested a number of individuals, including five alleged gunrunners.

“As a result of these operations, several suspected notorious bandits were arrested, and five gunrunners were apprehended. A significant cache of arms and ammunition was also recovered,” Muhammad said.

According to him, the weapons recovered include AK-47 rifles, fabricated firearms, pistols and a submachine gun, alongside a quantity of illicit drugs believed to have been supplied to criminal groups.

In a separate operation, officers of the Anti-Kidnapping Unit arrested a suspect in Jaji, Igabi Local Government Area, allegedly found with multiple fabricated rifles and magazines.

“One black Wellco boot was also recovered from the suspect. Preliminary investigations indicate that he is involved in illegal arms fabrication and supply, thereby fuelling criminal activities within and beyond Kaduna State,” the CP said.

He added that another suspect was arrested in neighbouring Plateau State in connection with the case, while three other individuals were intercepted in Kasuwan Magani over an alleged illegal arms deal.

“These achievements underscore our commitment to proactive, intelligence-driven policing and our resolve to cut the supply chain of illegal arms fuelling violent crimes in the state,” Muhammad stated.

The police commissioner said investigations were ongoing to dismantle the arms network and prosecute those involved.