The Katsina State Police Command has intercepted a significant haul of firearms and ammunition, arresting two men in an operation that authorities say disrupted a potentially dangerous arms supply network in the state.

The operation took place in the early hours of Monday when officers from the Ingawa Police Division, patrolling the Ingawa-Karkarku village route, stopped a blue Volkswagen Golf (registration RSH 528 BY ABJ). Concealed inside the vehicle, police discovered a General Purpose Machine Gun (GPMG) and 1,295 rounds of live ammunition.

The suspects, identified as Abdulsalam Muhammad, 25, and Aminu Mamman, 23, both from Baure Village in Safana Local Government Area, were transporting the weapons from Hadejia in Jigawa State to Safana LGA in Katsina State, according to police sources.

Recovered items included one GPMG (breach number Z8826), 1,063 rounds of 7.62 x 39mm AK-47 ammunition, and 232 rounds of 7.62 x 69mm PKT ammunition.

In a statement, Dr. Nasir Mu’azu, Katsina State Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, praised the police for the timely intervention.

“This operation demonstrates the Katsina State Government’s unwavering commitment to disrupting criminal supply chains before they can harm innocent citizens,” he said.

Dr. Mu’azu added that investigations are ongoing to determine the intended destination of the weapons, identify other possible accomplices, and trace the source of the sophisticated arsenal.

The state government commended the police for their vigilance and professionalism and pledged continued support for security agencies in combating criminal activities and arms trafficking.

Authorities emphasized that proactive policing, such as Monday’s operation, is crucial for preventing violence and ensuring the safety of communities across Katsina State.