NSCDC Raids Suspected Illegal Arms Workshop in Katsina, Arrests Four

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps in Katsina State said it has dismantled a suspected illegal arms fabrication site in Kore Village, Batagarawa Local Government Area, and arrested four men during the operation.

In a statement released by the command’s spokesperson, SC Buhari Hamisu, the agency said officers from its Special Rapid Response Squad carried out the raid at about 10:00 a.m. on Thursday after receiving what it described as credible intelligence.

Hamisu identified the suspects as Haruna Lawal, 28; Badamasi Kabiru, 50; Hamza Lawal, 30; and Sagir Abba, 25. He said the men were apprehended while alleged firearm production was ongoing at the location.

According to the NSCDC, items recovered at the scene included eight locally made skeletal rifles, five locally made pistol grips, four locally made magazines, one butt of a local rifle, five additional local rifle butts, and 20 pieces of locally made magazine parts. The command also listed 21 pieces of metal among the exhibits.

Other items displayed by the agency were one carbide, one hacksaw, three hammers, one spanner, one plier, one handsaw, one grinder, two gas cylinders, one welding machine, two motorcycles and 24 notes.

The command said investigators are questioning the suspects to determine whether the operation is linked to a wider network and to identify intended buyers of the weapons allegedly being produced.

Hamisu said the investigation would be expanded to uncover other possible collaborators and financiers, while evidence gathering continues for prosecution.

He added that the command would follow due process in handling the case and bring forward charges against anyone found culpable.

The NSCDC said the action forms part of its ongoing campaign against illegal arms production and circulation in the state. The agency also reiterated that it remains engaged in efforts to curb related offences such as vandalism and acts it described as economic sabotage.

Security concerns in parts of north-west Nigeria have increased pressure on law enforcement agencies to disrupt local weapon supply chains and intercept armed groups before attacks occur. Authorities have repeatedly said stopping fabrication and movement of illegal arms is central to reducing banditry, kidnapping and other violent crimes.

The Katsina command urged residents to continue sharing timely information with security agencies, saying community intelligence remains vital for prevention and rapid intervention.

As of the time of the statement, the suspects were in custody and no court date had been announced.