Troops Nab Vehicle Owner After Driver Escapes With AK-47 Rifle In Taraba

Troops from the Nigerian Army’s 6 Brigade in Jalingo, Taraba State, have apprehended the owner of a vehicle in which an AK-47 rifle was discovered.

According to Captain Olubodunde Oni, Acting Assistant Director of 6 Brigade Army Public Relations, the arrest occurred on September 8, 2024. The vehicle’s driver managed to flee into the surrounding bush when troops arrived.

The vehicle, a blue Toyota Yaris with registration number Taraba KLD 652 XA, was found with an AK-47 rifle and other incriminating items hidden in its compartment. The driver abandoned the car and escaped into nearby foliage.

Following a detailed investigation and intelligence gathering, troops tracked down and arrested Mallam Abubakar Adamu, the vehicle’s owner, who is suspected of involvement in local criminal activities. During questioning, Adamu admitted to instructing the driver, who remains at large, to transport the weapon from Doruwa village to Wukari in the Wukari Local Government Area. Mallam Abubakar was also found in possession of two mobile phones and was apprehended in Mutum Biyu along with union driver Mallam Isah Ibrahim, another accomplice.

Brigadier General Kingsley Chidiebere Uwa, Commander of the 6 Brigade, praised the troops for their commitment and perseverance.

“This arrest highlights our dedication to upholding peace and security in Taraba State and its surrounding areas,” Uwa stated. He also expressed gratitude to the local residents for their valuable intelligence that contributed to the operation’s success and encouraged continued cooperation with security agencies.