Operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) have arrested two suspected arms couriers, seized two Rocket-Propelled Grenade (RPG) warheads, an RPG launcher, and other items linked to bandits’ networks in Gombe State.
The suspects identified by the security agency as, Muhammed Alhaji Mohammed, 55; and Sani Gesha, 47, were intercepted at Mararaban Tula in Kaltungo Local Government Area of the State, while travelling in a grey Toyota Corolla with registration number, Taraba JAL 475 YQ.
Security sources told AIT News that the operation followed covert surveillance of a bandit cell led by a notorious kingpin involved in arms trafficking across Bauchi, Gombe, Taraba, and Adamawa States.
Operatives monitored the trafficking syndicate for over three weeks before eventually launching the operation. The exercise was professionally executed, leading to the arrest of the suspects and the recovery of a significant cache of arms and ammunition.
The source added that during interrogation, the suspects confessed that the consignment was to be delivered to one Ardo Hamma Ari, a resident of Kukawa village in Alkaleri Local Government Area of Bauchi State.
Relatedly, operatives also rescued a six-year-old boy, identified as Mohammed Jabir, at Gyada village, Talase, in Balanga Local Government Area of Gombe State.
Mohammed was reportedly kidnapped by one Salisu Hussain under the guise of teaching him how to ride a motorcycle.
Following a report of the incident, DSS operatives responded swiftly, leading to the boy’s rescue. The suspected kidnapper was also arrested.
While handing over Mohammed to his parents, they expressed gratitude to the DSS for the safe return of their son.
The suspects are currently in DSS custody and will be arraigned in Court soon, the source stated.
(Editor: Ken Eseni)
