Plateau Police Apprehend Two Suspects in Illegal Arms Trafficking Operations

The Plateau State Police Command has successfully apprehended two individuals suspected of illegal firearms possession and trafficking, seizing a locally fabricated AK-47 rifle and another rifle along with ammunition during separate intelligence-driven operations. This development was confirmed by SP Alfred Alabo, the command's spokesperson, in a statement released on Wednesday, July 1, 2026.

According to the statement, operatives from the Intelligence Response Team (IRT), working in conjunction with officers from the Bukuru Division, arrested 40-year-old Yakubu Danladi Pam, a resident of Barkin Ladi Local Government Area. Pam was taken into custody on June 22, 2026, at Miyango-Gyel, specifically behind Building Materials in Jos, following credible information regarding his unlawful possession of firearms.

During interrogation, Pam reportedly admitted to owning a locally manufactured firearm, explaining that he acquired it for personal defence against potential attacks. He further disclosed that he purchased the weapon from 19-year-old Abdulsalam Mohammed Hassan, who hails from Kadunu in Mangu Local Government Area. A locally fabricated AK-47 rifle was subsequently recovered from Pam during the operation.

Investigations stemming from Pam's confession led detectives to Hassan, who was also arrested. Hassan allegedly confessed to selling the firearm to Pam, admitting his role as a middleman who sourced weapons from unidentified suppliers and sold them to interested buyers for monetary gain. Police recovered a Type 06 rifle, two magazines, and 29 rounds of ammunition from Hassan at the time of his arrest.

The Plateau State Police Command stated that the case is currently under rigorous investigation at the State Criminal Investigation Department (CID). The objective is to trace the ultimate source of the illegal firearms and identify any other individuals connected to this criminal network.

CP Bassey Ewah, the Commissioner of Police in Plateau State, issued a stern warning to the public against the illegal acquisition, sale, and use of firearms. He emphasized that such activities pose a significant danger to public safety and security. CP Ewah reiterated the Command’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding lives and property throughout the state, pledging continued efforts to dismantle criminal organizations and enhance overall public safety.