The Oyo State Police Command has recorded a major breakthrough in its ongoing crackdown on illegal arms trafficking with the arrest of two suspected members of a transnational ammunition smuggling syndicate.
In a statement made available by DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, PPRO, Oyo State Command, the suspects, identified as Isiaka Dare, 35, and Taiwo Ayodabo, 33, both residents of Tede, were apprehended during a coordinated intelligence-led operation by operatives of the Command Monitoring Unit, Saki Base. They were arrested at Budo Mosalasi area of Saki.
According to the statement, the operation led to the recovery of 105 packets of pump-action cartridges, each containing 25 rounds, bringing the total to 2,625 live cartridges. The ammunition was reportedly concealed inside four kegs in an attempt to evade detection, while two unregistered motorcycles allegedly used to transport the items were also seized.
The statement further revealed that preliminary investigations showed the suspects specialize in smuggling ammunition into Nigeria from the Republic of Benin through unauthorized border routes. They have reportedly confessed and are assisting investigators in identifying other members of the syndicate.
The Commissioner of Police in Oyo State, Femi Haruna, commended the operatives for their professionalism and swift action. He assured residents that the Command remains committed to ensuring that Oyo State does not become a safe haven for criminal elements.
He also praised members of the public whose credible intelligence contributed to the success of the operation, stressing that community collaboration remains vital in the fight against crime.
The suspects will be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations.
