In a dramatic late-night arrest, the Gombe State Police Command has apprehended a 27-year-old man allegedly returning from a paid combat mission in Plateau State.
The suspect, identified as Joseph Babari, was intercepted by a police patrol unit from the Pero-Chonge Division around 11:30 p.m. on Wednesday, near the Gombe-Taraba border in Shongom Local Government Area.
According to a statement released on Saturday by the command’s spokesperson, DSP Buhari Abdullahi, the arrest took place during a routine stop-and-search operation. Officers reportedly found Babari in possession of a locally fabricated automatic rifle, eight rounds of live ammunition, a black combat vest, and various charms believed to be for “spiritual protection.”
“During preliminary interrogation, the suspect confessed to being recruited by an individual known only as Isah to fight in Bokkos Local Government Area of Plateau State,” DSP Abdullahi said.
Babari allegedly told police he had been paid ₦180,000 to engage in armed conflict for a two-month period and was en route to Karim Lamido in Taraba State when he was caught.
Authorities are now probing the origins of the weapon and the identity of the alleged recruiter. The suspect remains in custody as investigations continue.
The police command reassured residents of its commitment to cracking down on illegal arms trafficking and preserving public safety. It also urged citizens to be alert and report any suspicious activity to security agencies.
“This arrest underscores our resolve to prevent the spread of unlawful firearms and ensure that Gombe State remains safe and secure,” Abdullahi said.
