The Department of State Services (DSS) has arrested a man identified as Musa Abubakar, suspected to be a major arms manufacturer and supplier to armed groups operating in Plateau State and other parts of northern Nigeria.
According to security sources, Abubakar was picked up on 12 November 2025 following “precise and credible intelligence” that led operatives to his workshop in the Mista Ali area of Bassa Local Government Area, Plateau State.
“The suspect confessed to having manufactured and distributed high-caliber weapons and ammunition to armed groups involved in violent attacks in Plateau State and other northern regions,” a DSS source said.
During the raid, operatives reportedly recovered components of Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs), chemicals, tools, and other equipment allegedly used in fabricating weapons.
“Abubakar was apprehended red-handed with various IED components, chemicals, and equipment, all of which have been confiscated,” the source added.
The arrest comes barely days after the DSS recaptured Abdulazeez Obadaki, popularly known as Bomboy, a fugitive from the Kuje Prison jailbreak who was linked to the Owo and Deeper Life Church attacks.
Security analysts say the recent breakthroughs highlight the DSS’s intensified efforts to dismantle terror networks and curb the flow of illegal arms across the region.
It will be recalled that the agency recently arrested nine high-profile suspects connected to attacks in Plateau and Benue states, including Timna Manjol (46) of First Baptist Church, Mangu LGA, who has already pleaded guilty to two of four counts—including illegal possession of firearms—in case number FHC/ABJ/CR/451/2025.
