The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Katsina State Command, has uncovered and dismantled an illegal arms fabrication factory in Kore Village, located in the Batagarawa Local Government Area.

Four suspects have been arrested in this significant crackdown on the proliferation of illicit weapons.

A statement issued to the press and signed by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, SC Buhari Hamisu, noted that the operation was conducted by the Special Rapid Response Squad of the command on Thursday, February 26.

This action followed credible intelligence regarding the clandestine facility situated along Batsari Road in Kore, Batagarawa LGA.

While presenting the suspects, the Commandant of the Corps in Katsina State, Commandant Abbas Dan-ile Moriki, described this development as a crucial step in the ongoing efforts to eliminate illegal arms manufacturers and criminal networks that threaten public safety in the state.

According to the Command, the suspects — Haruna Lawal (28), Badamasi Kabiru (50), Hamza Lawal (30), and Sagir Abba (25) — were apprehended inside the factory while allegedly fabricating weapons.

A cache of exhibits was recovered from the scene, which included eight locally-made skeletal rifles, five locally-made pistol grips, four locally-made magazines, multiple rifle butts, 20 magazine parts, 21 metal components, welding and grinding machines, gas cylinders, hammers, saws, spanners, and two motorcycles identified as Jincheng and Boxer brands.

Security sources indicated that the factory was fully equipped for the production and assembly of locally fabricated firearms, raising concerns about the extent of underground arms supply within the state.

Commandant Moriki commended the operatives for their swift and professional response, emphasising that the Command remains determined to combat illicit arms proliferation, vandalism, and other criminal activities across Katsina State.

“The Command will not relent in its mandate to protect Critical National Assets and Infrastructure. We are determined to dismantle criminal syndicates and ensure that those involved face the full weight of the law,” he stated.

He further disclosed that investigations are ongoing to track down other members of the syndicate and suspected buyers, assuring that due process will be strictly followed in prosecuting the suspects.

The Command also appreciated members of the public for their continued cooperation, urging residents to sustain the flow of actionable intelligence to security agencies.

With this latest bust, the NSCDC has once again reinforced its commitment to keeping Katsina safe amid growing security concerns in parts of the North-West.

Tribune

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