Military nabs gunrunners in Taraba

On Wednesday, August 11, 2021, the Nigerian army announced that it had arrested two gunrunners in Taraba State, Northeast Nigeria. The arrest was made by a joint military operation made up of troops from the 93 Battalion Nigerian Army and operatives of the Nigerian police.

According to a statement released by the Nigerian army, the operation took place in Takum Local Government Area of Taraba. The army troops had received intel about the activities of the gunrunners, who were said to be on their way to hand over arms to their clients in the state. The army promptly set up a checkpoint along the planned route of the gunrunners, which led to their eventual arrest.

The two individuals were found in possession of two assault rifles, hundreds of rounds of ammunition, and several magazines. The guns and ammunition were concealed in their vehicle, which was also seized by the authorities. The gunrunners were taken into custody and handed over to the police for further investigation and prosecution.

The arrest of the gunrunners has been hailed as a significant achievement by security experts in Nigeria. The proliferation of weapons has been a major challenge in Nigeria, fueling violent crimes and insecurity in many parts of the country. Armed robbery, kidnapping, and terrorism have all been linked to the easy availability of guns in Nigeria, making it essential for the government to crack down on illegal arms dealers and gunrunners.

The military's success in intercepting the gunrunners demonstrates its commitment to ensuring the safety of Nigerians, particularly in the northeast, where the insurgency has been prevalent. The army has intensified its operations against terrorists and other criminal elements, with a focus on gathering intelligence to prevent attacks before they occur.

The arrest of the gunrunners also highlights the critical role played by the army in supporting law enforcement agencies in Nigeria. The joint military operation with the police underscores the military's support for other security agencies in the country, particularly in areas where they lack the equipment or training to undertake such operations independently.

Overall, the military's success in intercepting the gunrunners is a testament to its unwavering commitment to protecting Nigeria's sovereignty and securing its borders. The army has continued to play a crucial role in maintaining peace and stability in Nigeria, particularly in areas affected by terrorism and other forms of insecurity.

As Nigeria continues to deal with the challenges of terrorism, insurgency, and other crimes, the army's efforts remain critical in achieving lasting peace and stability in the country.