Security operatives have arrested a suspected gunrunner accused of operating around the Ungwan Boka–forest corridor in Riyom Local Government Area of Plateau State.
Troops of Sector 6, Operation ENDURING PEACE, have apprehended a man identified as Joseph Tukura, popularly known as Sarti, during a security operation in Riyom.
Tukura was arrested at about 9:00 p.m. on August 23, 2026, by troops deployed at Sopp, according to security sources.
The suspect was reportedly intercepted while riding a motorcycle along the Ungwan Boka–forest axis, an area where security agencies have been monitoring suspected criminal activities.
Preliminary findings indicated that Tukura may have a history of involvement in illegal arms dealings, with security authorities alleging that he had previously been arrested in connection with suspected gunrunning.
Despite the earlier arrest, he was said to have returned to the area, prompting renewed security attention around his activities.
Following his arrest, the suspect was taken into custody and is currently undergoing interrogation as investigators work to establish his alleged links with other criminal elements operating along the highway and neighbouring communities.
Security authorities are also expected to examine whether the suspect’s activities form part of a broader arms-trafficking network supplying weapons to criminal groups in Plateau and surrounding areas.
Investigators are particularly interested in identifying possible accomplices, sources of firearms and the destinations of any weapons allegedly handled by the suspect.
The arrest comes amid sustained security operations by troops of Operation ENDURING PEACE aimed at disrupting criminal networks, securing vulnerable communities and restoring safe movement along major routes in Plateau State.
Authorities said the investigation remains ongoing, with further developments expected as security operatives unravel the full extent of the suspect’s alleged activities.
Source:@ZagazolaMakama
