Police in Niger State arrested a 30-year-old man, Agada Isaac, on Tuesday after officers found a Beretta pistol and military camouflage clothing in his possession. The arrest happened during a routine patrol near a checkpoint in Bida Local Government Area, when officers attached to 'B' Division stopped and searched the suspect.
The discovery of the firearm and military uniform raised immediate red flags for the police, who detained him for questioning. Investigators have not yet disclosed what Isaac told them about where he obtained the weapon or why he was carrying military-issue clothing through a civilian area.
The arrest comes as Niger State battles an ongoing security crisis. Armed gangs and bandit groups have operated across the state for years, attacking communities, kidnapping residents, and disrupting commerce. Police presence at checkpoints and during patrols reflects efforts to intercept weapons and suspects before they can carry out attacks.
Police authorities in the state have intensified stop-and-search operations in recent months following a rise in violent crimes. The recovery of firearms during these operations has become increasingly common, though most guns recovered are illegal weapons smuggled into the state or stolen from security forces.
The case file will move to the prosecutors office, where a charging decision will be made. Isaac faces potential charges under Nigeria's firearms act, which carries prison sentences for illegal possession of weapons. Police said investigations are ongoing to determine his links, if any, to criminal networks operating in the state.
