Shock rippled through security circles after investigators uncovered alleged internal collusion in a violent robbery, with a serving police sergeant accused of providing the assault rifle used in the attack.
Police authorities said the case surfaced following the arrest of a suspected armed robber, identified as 30-year-old Justine Gbata, who was apprehended after a brazen daytime operation that left residents rattled and security agencies on high alert.
According to security officials, the suspect and his accomplices reportedly attacked a local resident, Muhammad Danka, dispossessing him of a red Bajaj motorcycle after firing multiple gunshots to scare off bystanders.
Moreover, the robbery triggered a swift response from a joint team of police operatives, vigilantes, and local hunters, who tracked the assailants into the surrounding bushland and succeeded in arresting one suspect.
“Seven expended AK-47 shells were recovered at the scene, indicating the level of firepower deployed during the operation,” a security source said.
During preliminary questioning, investigators said the suspect sustained injuries while attempting to evade arrest and was subsequently taken to a medical facility for treatment before interrogation resumed.
Crucially, police sources disclosed that the suspect later admitted that the rifle used in the robbery was allegedly supplied by an active-duty police sergeant serving at the Daudu Division in neighbouring Benue State.
“This confession opened a new and troubling dimension to the investigation,” an officer familiar with the probe said.
Following the revelation, the implicated sergeant was identified, arrested, and transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department for in-depth questioning.
Meanwhile, police authorities said efforts were ongoing to track down other members of the robbery gang and recover the stolen motorcycle.
“Investigations are continuing, and anyone found culpable will face the full weight of the law,” a senior police official said.
The incident occurred in Doma Local Government Area of Nasarawa State and has renewed concerns over the illegal circulation of firearms and insider involvement in criminal activities within the region.