Troops Uncover Illegal Arms Factory in Nasarawa, Arrest Suspect

Troops of Sector 2, Joint Task Force (JTF) Operation WHIRL STROKE have uncovered an illegal arms manufacturing site in Agwatashi, Doma Local Government Area of Nasarawa State, arresting one suspect and recovering locally fabricated weapons, cash and tools.

The discovery was made during a routine fighting and confidence-building patrol by troops deployed at Forward Operating Base (FOB) Idadu, as part of ongoing operations to curb criminal activities in the area.

According to military sources, the troops stumbled upon a concealed location suspected to be used for the production of locally made firearms.

On sighting the patrol, several individuals reportedly fled the area.

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However, one suspect, identified as Baba Ogar, 26, from Arusu village in Kokona Local Government Area, was arrested while attempting to evade capture by hiding atop a tree.

A search of the site led to the recovery of six locally fabricated pistols, assorted tools believed to be used in the manufacture of illegal weapons, the sum of ₦40,500 in cash, and a mobile phone found in the suspect’s possession.

Preliminary investigations indicate that the location served as an illegal arms factory supplying firearms to criminal elements within and beyond the area.

The suspect is currently in custody, while efforts have been intensified to track down and arrest other suspects who escaped during the operation.

The Force Commander of JTF Operation WHIRL STROKE, Major General Moses Gara, commended the troops for their professionalism, vigilance and sustained operational pressure that led to the breakthrough.

He urged them to maintain the momentum and continue to rely on intelligence-driven operations to dismantle criminal networks across the Joint Operations Area.

Major General Gara also called on residents to support security efforts by providing timely and credible information, noting that public cooperation remains critical to achieving lasting security and promoting economic growth in the region.

The Joint Task Force reiterated its commitment to safeguarding lives and property and sustaining operations against all forms of criminality in its area of responsibility.