Court Sentences Three for Arms Trafficking in Taraba

A court in Jalingo, Taraba State, sentenced three individuals—Sakina Garba, Ali Gono, and Ibrahim Abdulrashid—to 10 years in prison for arms trafficking, with no option for a fine. The sentencing occurred after their arrest by the Department of State Services (DSS) in January and February 2026.

Halima Haliru Umar, the only female convict, was also arrested and pleaded guilty to illegal possession of 302 rounds of live ammunition. The DSS's operation revealed plans to transport arms and ammunition to bandit kingpins in Bantaj village, Wukari Local Government Area, Taraba State.

During the operation, suspects were intercepted along the Wukari-Jalingo road, where they concealed two sacks containing food items and an AK-47 rifle, along with various rounds of ammunition. Justice Haywa Joseph Yilwatda presided over the case, which has been adjourned until May 8, 2025, for further proceedings.