The Yobe State Police Command has uncovered an alleged illegal firearms factory operating from a blacksmith workshop in Potiskum, arresting seven suspects and recovering fabricated pistols, gun parts and other weapon-production equipment.
The operation, carried out by operatives of the Potiskum Area Command in collaboration with the Divisional Police Headquarters, followed credible intelligence on suspected illegal firearms manufacturing activities within the area.
According to the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Dungus Abdulkarim, the operatives raided a blacksmith workshop located at Tasha Adua along Danchuwa Road in Potiskum, leading to the arrest of seven suspects believed to be connected to the operation.
During the raid, police recovered two fabricated pistols, 24 muzzle pipes, nine gun butts, four unserviceable Dane guns, one filing machine and a sharp cutlass.
Describing the discovery as a significant breakthrough in the command’s renewed efforts to combat crime and criminality, Abdulkarim said investigations were ongoing to unravel the full scope of the operation.
“The suspects are currently undergoing thorough investigation to identify their collaborators, possible buyers and the intended use of the fabricated firearms,” he said.
The police spokesperson added that detectives were working to determine whether the operation was linked to wider criminal networks involved in the illegal manufacture and distribution of weapons.
Reacting to the development, the Commissioner of Police, Yobe State Command, CP Usman Kanfani Jibrin, directed investigators to intensify efforts to uncover other illegal firearms fabrication centres and assess the potential security threat posed by such activities.
“The Commissioner of Police has directed officers handling the case to deepen investigations, identify other illegal firearms fabrication centres and bring all those connected to the illicit trade to justice,” Abdulkarim stated.
He said the command remained committed to preventing the proliferation of illegal arms and ensuring that individuals involved in activities capable of threatening public safety were apprehended.
The command also warned residents against allowing their premises or facilities to be used for unlawful activities, particularly the manufacture of dangerous weapons.
“We urge members of the public to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious activities or movements to the nearest police station or other security agencies,” Abdulkarim said.
The suspects are expected to face prosecution upon the conclusion of investigations.
