Security forces in the Republic of Niger have intercepted two suspected weapons smugglers in Agadez, uncovering a cache of munitions cleverly concealed within car spare parts.
According to security sources, the operation was conducted following intelligence reports on the movement of illegal arms through the Libya–Agadez–Maradi–Nigeria route, a corridor notorious for weapons trafficking across the Sahel and West Africa.
Authorities revealed that the suspects were transporting multiple rounds of ammunition disguised inside vehicle components in an apparent attempt to evade security checkpoints. The seizure underscores the persistent threat of arms smuggling that continues to fuel insecurity in the subregion.
The suspects are currently in custody as investigations continue to trace the source and intended destination of the weapons.
Officials praised the swift response of Niger’s security forces, describing the arrest as a significant step in disrupting the supply chain of arms traffickers operating between Libya, Niger, and northern Nigeria.
Regional analysts say the bust highlights the urgent need for stronger cross-border collaboration among Sahelian states to curb the flow of illicit weapons driving conflict and banditry across the region.
Source:@Secmxx
