The Oyo State Police Command has dismantled a transnational ammunition trafficking syndicate, arresting two key suspects and recovering a massive cache of 2,625 live cartridges.
The breakthrough was achieved by operatives of the Command Monitoring Unit at the Saki Operation Base. Acting on actionable intelligence, the team executed a coordinated raid at Budo Mosalasi, Saki, resulting in the apprehension of 35-year-old Isiaka Dare and 33-year-old Taiwo Ayodabo.
Both suspects, residents of Tede, are believed to be instrumental figures in a network that moves prohibited munitions across international borders.
Preliminary investigations conducted by the police reveal that the syndicate specialised in smuggling ammunition from the Republic of Benin into Nigeria.
By utilising unauthorised border routes and unregistered motorcycles to evade detection, the suspects allegedly supplied prohibited cartridges to unauthorised individuals. Authorities believe these supplies were destined for use in high-level violent crimes, including kidnapping, banditry, and armed robbery.
The scale of the operation, Securitynewsalert.com, became clear during the search, where officers discovered 105 packets of pump-action cartridges. To mask the illicit cargo, the ammunition was concealed inside four jerry cans. In addition to the 2,625 cartridges, two unregistered motorcycles used for the cross-border distribution were seized as evidence.
Following the arrests, the suspects reportedly confessed to their roles in the criminal enterprise. They are currently assisting the police in a broader investigation aimed at identifying other accomplices and unravelling the full extent of the transnational network.
Commissioner of Police Femi Haruna lauded the precision and professionalism of the monitoring unit. He emphasised that proactive, intelligence-led policing remains the most effective tool in dismantling organised crime.
The Commissioner also extended his gratitude to the public, noting that the success of the operation was a direct result of timely information provided by vigilant community members.
CP Haruna has directed that the suspects be charged in court immediately upon the conclusion of the investigation.
He reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to ensuring Oyo State does not become a sanctuary for criminals, urging residents to continue utilising the state’s emergency toll-free lines to report suspicious activities.
