An illegal firearms fabrication site has been uncovered in Giroji Village, Makarfi Local Government Area of Kaduna State, leading to the arrest of four individuals suspected to be involved in the production and distribution of locally made weapons.

Zagazola Makama gathered from security sources that the discovery followed credible intelligence on suspicious activity around a residential building in the area, which prompted swift action by surveillance operatives.

Two suspects, Shuaibu Abubakar, 35, and Ismail Shuaibu, 18, both from Unguwar Mani Danshoshiya in Kiru Local Government Area of Kano State, were caught in the act of fabricating firearms and cartridges.

A search of the premises resulted in the recovery of: Three locally made firearms, three skeletal gun frames, 14 cartridges, five T.06 live ammunition, Bench vice machine, Filing machine, Welding machine, Binding wire, Several iron rods and pipes and a bunch of keys.

Further investigation led to the arrest of two others Hassan Ibrahim, of Giroji Village, and Murtala Yakubu, of Kari in Makarfi. Both men were identified as members of a local vigilante group.

The four suspects have reportedly provided useful information regarding the extent of their operations, and the matter has been handed over to the appropriate authorities for further investigation and prosecution.

The discovery is expected to boost ongoing efforts aimed at curbing the proliferation of illegal weapons and addressing security challenges in the region. (Zagazola)