A 25-year-old man from Bauchi State, identified as Umar Abdullahi, is in police custody after being apprehended by operatives of the Edo State Security Corps (ESSC) for allegedly possessing a firearm.
The arrest occurred at approximately 2:00 AM at Akara Junction in the Aduwawa area of Ikpoba Okha Local Government Area.
Richard Balogun, the Deputy Commander, Operations, of the ESSC, confirmed the incident to reporters. He stated that Abdullahi was found to be in possession of a gun during the arrest. The suspect has since been handed over to the Edo State Police for further investigation and prosecution.
According to reports, Abdullahi was traveling from Bauchi State to Edo State when he was stopped by an ESSC patrol team. Sources indicate that the suspect’s lack of a clear destination aroused suspicion, leading the ESSC to initiate an interrogation. A subsequent search allegedly revealed a locally made, cut-to-size gun on his person. The suspect was unable to provide a satisfactory explanation for his travels or the firearm, leading to his immediate arrest.
The authorities are currently investigating the reasons behind Abdullahi’s journey and the intended use of the weapon. This incident has raised concerns about the movement of firearms and potential security threats within the state.
This arrest forms part of ESSC’s intensified efforts to curb illegal possession of firearms, which often fuel kidnappings, armed robberies, and communal clashes in parts of Edo State. Authorities have repeatedly warned against unauthorized movement of weapons, especially during nighttime hours or across state borders, as such activities heighten risks to public safety.