The Nasarawa State Police Command have arrested a 21-year-old woman suspected of trafficking ammunition to terrorist groups in parts of the state known for high levels of insecurity.
According to reports, the suspect, identified as Fatima Salisu, is a native of Funtua in Katsina State, and was on her way to deliver a significant consignment of ammunition when she was intercepted in the Azuba area of Lafia, the State capital.
The Command’s Public Relations Officer, DSP Ramhan Nansel, in a statement issued on Thursday, said the arrest followed credible intelligence pointing to the suspect’s movements through Keana and Doma local government areas of the state.
“Acting swiftly on the intelligence tip-off, Commissioner of Police, CP Shetima J. Mohammed, ordered the immediate deployment of the Command’s Anti-Kidnapping Unit,” Nansel said.
The police said the operation led to the arrest of Salisu and the recovery of a total of 481 rounds of ammunition, comprising 400 rounds of 7.62x39mm and 81 rounds of 7.62mm NATO.
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The police spokesperson noted that Salisu had been taken into custody and was undergoing interrogation.
The Nasarawa State Police Command reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring public safety, describing the arrest as a significant breakthrough in the ongoing crackdown on illegal arms proliferation.
The Command also urged residents to continue providing security agencies with timely and actionable information, emphasising the crucial role of community involvement in combating crime.
Nasarawa State has increasingly become a transit point for criminal elements, given its geographical proximity to insurgency-prone areas.
According to Sahara Reporters, the local governments of Keana and Doma, where Salisu was reportedly headed, have in recent years witnessed rising security concerns, including kidnappings and rural banditry.
