The [Department of State Services](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Department_of_State_Services) (DSS) has detained five individuals alleged to be arms couriers and confiscated a total of 2,241 rounds of ammunition in a series of operations carried out across [Nasarawa State](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nasarawa_State). The arrests were disclosed by Governor [Abdullahi A. Sule](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Abdullahi_Sule) on Thursday, 22 October 2026, through his Chief Press Secretary Ibrahim Addra.
**Key facts**
- The most recent detainee is 23‑year‑old Aisha Mohammed of Bwari, FCT, seized in Keffi with 202 rounds of 7.62 mm ammunition and three empty magazines.
- Earlier arrests included 40‑year‑old Hassan Sani, 41‑year‑old Abdulkadir Idrissa, and 70‑year‑old Salihu Garba (also known as Nabayi), who were apprehended between August and September and yielded 777 rounds (678 of 7.62 mm and 99 of 7.5 mm) plus additional items.
- In August, operatives intercepted another courier, Ismail Lawalli of Zamfara State, on the Keffi‑Abuja highway, recovering the largest single cache of 1,262 assorted rounds.
- Governor Sule praised the dedication of the security personnel, stating, "The relentless effort of the DSS and our partner agencies demonstrates our unwavering commitment to curbing gun running in Nasarawa."
**What prompted the operation?**
The crackdown forms part of a broader state‑wide initiative launched in early 2026 to stem the flow of illicit firearms and ammunition, which have been linked to rising criminal activity in the region.
**How were the arrests carried out?**
Security teams conducted coordinated sweeps in multiple localities, employing intelligence gathered from informants and surveillance along major transit routes such as the Keffi‑Abuja highway.
**What items were seized?**
Beyond the ammunition, officials recovered several empty magazines and other paraphernalia associated with the transport of small arms.
The governor reaffirmed his administration’s resolve to work closely with security agencies to eradicate illegal arms trafficking and protect the safety of Nasarawa residents.