In a significant breakthrough against criminal networks, operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) have intercepted a suspected ammunition courier, disrupting a supply chain believed to be fueling banditry across multiple states.
The suspect, identified as 25-year-old Nafisa Usman, was apprehended at a busy motor park in Kano while allegedly transporting 200 rounds of newly acquired ammunition. Security sources disclosed that the consignment originated from Lafia in Nasarawa State and was destined for Kankara in Katsina State – an area long troubled by armed bandit activity.
According to intelligence reports, the arrest followed a carefully coordinated operation based on credible surveillance of the suspect’s movements. Authorities say Usman, a native of Zango village in Kankara Local Government Area, was intercepted before she could complete the delivery to criminal elements reportedly operating within the Kankara forest.
During interrogation, the suspect allegedly confessed to being involved in the illicit arms trade for approximately two months. She claimed the ammunition was supplied by an individual known as “Teso,” who she alleged works in collaboration with a military operative based in Lafia.
Further revelations indicated that Usman had facilitated transactions exceeding ₦5 million, using the Unguwa Uku motor park in Kano as a transit hub for shipments heading into Katsina State. The consignments, she reportedly admitted, were intended for a notorious bandit leader identified as Mallam Haruna, as well as other associates known as Buba and Abu, all believed to be active within the same forest region.
Investigators also uncovered that Usman was introduced to the network through a Kano-based livestock trader named Sulaiman, suggesting an organized supply chain than previously understood.
Security officials said that the operation highlights ongoing efforts by the DSS to dismantle arms trafficking routes and weaken the operational capacity of bandit groups. Authorities reaffirmed their commitment to safeguarding national security and urged the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities.
The suspect remains in custody as investigations continue, with further arrests expected as authorities intensify efforts to unravel the network behind the illegal arms trade.
