Troops Uncover Illegal Arms Factory in Nasarawa, Recover Pistols, Cash
Troops of Sector 2, Joint Task Force Operation WHIRL STROKE (OPWS), have recorded another major breakthrough in their ongoing operations against criminality with the discovery of an illegal arms manufacturing site in Nasarawa State.
The operation was carried out during a fighting and confidence-building patrol in Agwatashi, Doma Local Government Area, by troops deployed at the Forward Operating Base (FOB), Idadu.
According to a press release issued by Lieutenant Ahmad Zubairu Zubairu, Acting Media Information Officer, Headquarters JTF Operation WHIRL STROKE, the troops were on a routine patrol aimed at denying criminal elements freedom of movement when they uncovered a concealed location suspected to be used for the illegal production of locally fabricated firearms.
On approaching the site, several suspects reportedly fled the scene. However, one individual—identified as Baba Ogar, a 26-year-old male from Arusu village in Kokona Local Government Area—was apprehended while attempting to evade arrest by hiding atop a tree.
A thorough search of the area led to the recovery of six locally fabricated pistols, assorted tools and equipment believed to be used for arms production, the sum of ₦40,500 in cash, and a mobile phone found in the suspect’s possession.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the site was being used as an illegal arms manufacturing hub, supplying firearms to criminal elements within and beyond the area. The suspect is currently in custody, while efforts have been intensified to track down and arrest other accomplices who escaped during the operation.
Commending the troops for their professionalism and vigilance, the Force Commander of JTF Operation WHIRL STROKE, Major General Moses Gara, described the discovery as a result of sustained operational pressure and effective patrols.
He urged the troops to maintain the momentum and continue leveraging intelligence-driven operations to dismantle criminal networks within the Joint Operations Area.
Major General Gara also underscored the importance of public cooperation, calling on residents to provide timely and credible intelligence, which he noted remains crucial to achieving lasting security and fostering economic growth.
