The Oyo State Police Command has announced a major breakthrough in its fight against illegal arms proliferation, dismantling a transnational ammunition trafficking syndicate and recovering 2,625 cartridges.
In a press release issued on February 27, 2026, the Command disclosed that operatives of its Monitoring Unit, Saki Operation Base, carried out an intelligence-led operation that led to the arrest of two suspected international gun runners at Budo Mosalasi, Saki.
The suspects, identified as Isiaka Dare, 35, and Taiwo Ayodabo, 33, both from Tede, were apprehended following credible intelligence linking them to cross-border ammunition trafficking from the Republic of Benin into Nigeria through unauthorized routes.
Police investigations revealed that the suspects allegedly engaged in the clandestine importation and distribution of prohibited ammunition to unauthorized individuals across the country. Authorities warned that such arms could be used in armed robbery, kidnapping, banditry, and other violent crimes.
During the operation, officers recovered 105 packets of pump-action cartridges concealed in four jerry cans. Each packet contained 25 cartridges, bringing the total to 2,625 cartridges. Two unregistered motorcycles believed to have been used for transporting the ammunition were also seized.
The suspects have reportedly confessed and are assisting investigators in uncovering the broader transnational network and identifying other accomplices.
Commissioner of Police Femi Haruna directed that the suspects be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations. He commended the professionalism of the operatives and emphasized the importance of intelligence-led policing in dismantling organized criminal networks.
The Command urged residents to remain vigilant and continue providing useful information to security agencies as efforts intensify to curb the proliferation of illegal arms in Oyo State.
