Police Sergeant Detained for Allegedly Supplying Firearm in Nasarawa Robbery Incident
A serving police sergeant has been apprehended and is currently under investigation for his alleged involvement in supplying an AK-47 rifle that was utilized during an armed robbery operation in Doma Local Government Area of Nasarawa State. This development has raised serious concerns about internal security breaches within law enforcement agencies.
Details of the Armed Robbery Attack
According to reports from security analyst Zagazola Makama, the incident unfolded on January 24, 2026, at approximately 1:00 p.m. in the Ankoma Village area. Armed assailants, equipped with an AK-47 rifle, launched an attack on Muhammad Danka, a resident of Ankoma Village. During the operation, the gunmen fired multiple shots before successfully making off with Danka's red Bajaj motorcycle and fleeing into a nearby forest.
Arrest and Recovery of Evidence
Following the robbery report, a coordinated team comprising police operatives, local vigilantes, and hunters immediately pursued the attackers into the forested area. Their efforts led to the apprehension of one suspect identified as Justine Gbata, a 30-year-old individual from Doka Village. At the crime scene, investigators recovered seven empty AK-47 cartridge shells as crucial evidence.
The suspect sustained injuries during the chase and was subsequently transported to General Hospital in Doma for necessary medical treatment. During interrogation sessions, Gbata made a startling confession that directly implicated law enforcement personnel in the criminal activity.
Confession and Police Involvement
"During interrogation, the suspect confessed that the rifle used for the robbery was supplied by a serving police sergeant attached to Daudu Division in Benue State," revealed sources familiar with the investigation. This revelation prompted immediate action by police authorities to identify and detain the implicated officer.
The sergeant has since been identified and is currently being held at the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) in Benue State, where he faces thorough questioning and further investigation regarding his alleged role in supplying the firearm to criminal elements.
Ongoing Investigation and Police Response
Police authorities have confirmed that intensive efforts are underway to apprehend the remaining members of the robbery gang and recover the stolen motorcycle. The case continues to be actively investigated, with particular focus on determining the extent of the sergeant's involvement and whether this represents an isolated incident or part of a broader pattern of misconduct within the force.
This incident highlights the critical importance of internal accountability mechanisms within Nigeria's security apparatus and underscores the challenges faced in combating armed robbery when weapons may potentially originate from within law enforcement circles.
