The operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in Zamfara State have successfully intercepted a woman transporting live ammunition believed to be destined for bandits terrorizing the North-West region of Nigeria. The arrest occurred during a routine stop-and-search operation along the Tsafe–Gusau highway.
The suspect, reportedly from Birnin Magaji Local Government Area, had concealed the live ammunition inside her luggage in an attempt to smuggle it through Tsafe. Malam Garba Shehu, Chairman of Tsafe Local Government, confirmed the arrest, describing it as “a major breakthrough in the ongoing clampdown on criminal logistics and arms trafficking networks” across Zamfara.
Expressing appreciation for the NDLEA operatives’ vigilance, Shehu stated, “This arrest has prevented dangerous ammunition from reaching criminal elements threatening peace in our communities.” He further pledged continued support for security agencies in the area and warned that anyone caught aiding crime or banditry would face the full weight of the law. “As a local government, we will continue to provide whatever support is necessary to ensure law enforcement officers carry out their duties effectively,” he added.
Following her arrest, the suspect was transferred to a secure facility for further investigation, while security agencies intensified efforts to trace both the source and intended recipients of the ammunition.
This development comes amidst increasing anti-crime operations in Tsafe and nearby communities, as security forces work to disrupt the bandits’ supply routes linking Birnin Magaji, Tsafe, and the Dansadau forest axis.
In a related incident, which was reported, an ambush by Lakurawa terrorists on the convoy of Jafaru Mohammad Ali Damisa, Member representing Borgu and Agwara Federal Constituency in Niger State House of Representatives. The attack, which took place along the Lumma–Babanna road in Borgu Local Government Area, resulted in the death of a soldier and injuries to several others.
The terrorists, heavily armed and lying in wait, opened fire between 1pm and 2pm, sparking panic among members of the lawmaker’s entourage, including his security escorts and political supporters. According to sources, “One soldier was killed on the spot, while about eight others sustained varying degrees of injuries.” The wounded were evacuated to the General Hospital, New Bussa for treatment.
The dual incidents highlight the escalating security challenges in the region and underscore the ongoing efforts by law enforcement agencies to curb the flow of arms to criminal elements threatening peace and stability in parts of North-West Nigeria.
