The Delta State Police Command has arrested three suspects in separate incidents, for gun running, recovering a large cache of firearms, and ammunition in the process.
In a statement released by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Edafe Bright, the command said the first arrest occurred on March 3, 2025, when operatives intercepted a blue Toyota Camry with registration number PHC 257 NT, along the Warri-Benin Expressway, near the Western Delta University, Oghara.
The vehicle, driven by Peter James, a 55-year-old man from Akwa Ibom State, was discovered to have a modified trunk. Upon further inspection, officers discovered three AK-47 rifles, 3,120 rounds of ammunition, and four boxes of 51mm bullets hidden under the back seat.
The suspect was immediately taken into custody for further investigation.
Also, in another separate operation on March 6, 2025, police officers intercepted a navy-blue Sharon space bus, with registration number DKA 408 LM, along the Asaba-Benin Expressway, near the National Open University, Onicha-Ugbo.
The vehicle, driven by Yahuza Magaji (69), and accompanied by Abba Sani (17), both from Kaduna State, was disguised as a commercial vehicle transporting palm oil and garri.
Read also: Delta police rescue five kidnap victims in Ogwashi-Uku, recover ₦1.3 Million
However, upon a thorough search, police uncovered seven pump-action guns, and 1,600 rounds of live cartridges hidden under the back seat.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the suspects purchased the weapons in Onitsha, and were transporting them to Kaduna State.
Commending the officers involved, CP Abaniwonda praised their vigilance, and urged all officers in the command to remain relentless in combating crime.
He reiterated the command’s resolve to curb illegal arms trafficking, and protect the residents of Delta State.
Both suspects remain in custody as investigations continue.
