Troops of Operation ENDURING PEACE (OPEP) have arrested a suspected high-profile arms trafficker linked to an interstate illegal weapons network in Plateau State, marking a significant breakthrough in the fight against gun violence and organized crime in Nigeria. The arrest took place on Sunday, June 14, 2026, following a coordinated, intelligence-led operation by Sector 6 troops in collaboration with Headquarters Operation ENDURING PEACE. The suspect, identified as Inspector Danjuma Yusuf, was intercepted at a military checkpoint in Makera, Riyom Local Government Area, while traveling in a white Peugeot vehicle from Jos South.
The operation was triggered by credible intelligence indicating the movement of illicit arms across state borders. Security operatives placed the suspect under surveillance and successfully intercepted him without incident. A thorough search of the vehicle revealed a cache of dangerous items, including two locally fabricated pistols, 167 rounds of 9mm ammunition, three cans of pepper spray, a jackknife, two mobile phones, two cutlasses, a police staff tag, photographs of the suspect in police uniform, two ATM cards, a National Identification Number (NIN) card, and cash totaling N73,300.
Investigations confirmed that Inspector Danjuma Yusuf was formerly a member of the Nigeria Police Force, stationed at Base 7 in Abuja, but had been dismissed from service. He is now believed to be a key figure in an interstate arms-trafficking syndicate that supplies weapons to criminal groups involved in terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, and other violent crimes. His arrest underscores the growing threat posed by former security personnel who exploit their knowledge and connections to fuel insecurity.
The Nigerian Army, through Operation ENDURING PEACE, emphasized its ongoing commitment to protecting lives and property across the country. The operation reiterated that sustained offensive actions will continue against all forms of criminal and terrorist threats. Authorities also urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities or credible information to security agencies to help dismantle criminal networks and restore lasting peace.
This arrest comes at a critical time as Nigeria continues to grapple with rising insecurity, particularly in the North-West and North-Central regions. The recovery of weapons and the identification of a former police officer as a key trafficker highlight the need for stronger inter-agency collaboration and more robust monitoring of dismissed security personnel. The military’s success in this operation sends a clear message that no one is above the law, regardless of past affiliations. As the campaign against illegal arms intensifies, authorities remain focused on ensuring that communities can live in safety and security.
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