By: Zagazola Makama
In a dramatic operation along the Asaba-Benin Expressway, the Delta State Police Command has apprehended a 69-year-old retired Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) and his 17-year-old accomplice for illegal possession of firearms and ammunition.
The arrest, made during a routine stop-and-search operation by officers of Dragon Patrol Team 02, has raised serious security concerns, given the suspect’s background in law enforcement.
According to intelligence sources, the officers intercepted a Navy Blue Sharon Space Bus with registration number DKA 408 LM (Kaduna) near the National Open University, Onicha-Ugbo, Aniocha North Local Government Area.
Upon conducting a thorough search, the officers made a chilling discovery:
Seven pump-action guns
1,600 rounds of live cartridges
All carefully concealed beneath the vehicle’s back seat.
The prime suspect, Yahuza Magaji, reportedly identified himself as a retired DSP and admitted to procuring the weapons in Onitsha, Anambra State. He further confessed that he was en route to Kaduna State, raising speculation about the intended destination and purpose of the arms.
Meanwhile, his young accomplice, Abba Sani (17), was also taken into custody as police intensify their investigations to unravel the full network behind the arms deal.
The arrest of a former senior police officer in connection with illegal arms trafficking has sparked grave security concerns, particularly amid rising insecurity in parts of the country. Authorities are now working to determine whether the weapons were destined for criminal syndicates or other dangerous elements.
As the Delta State Police Command continues its probe, law enforcement agencies nationwide have been placed on high alert to track down any potential links to broader arms smuggling operations.
Stay tuned for further updates as the investigation unfolds.
PIONEER NEWS 