Troops Arrest 18 Soldiers, 15 Police Officers Over Illegal Arms Trade
In a major crackdown on internal corruption, troops have arrested 18 soldiers and 15 police officers over their alleged involvement in an illegal arms trafficking network.
The arrests follow a covert intelligence-led operation that has exposed a significant breach within the country’s security apparatus.
According to military sources, the operation was launched after weeks of surveillance and intelligence gathering revealed a disturbing pattern of weapons being diverted from official stockpiles.
The suspects, all serving members of the armed forces and police, are accused of illegally selling firearms and ammunition to unauthorized individuals, including suspected criminal elements and insurgent groups.
A senior military official, speaking on condition of anonymity, described the case as “an unforgivable betrayal of public trust” and emphasized the gravity of the situation.
“It is both shocking and shameful that individuals entrusted with the protection of the nation would stoop to aiding its enemies. This is not just a criminal offense—it is a direct threat to national security,” the official stated.
The arrested individuals are currently being held in a secure military facility, and interrogations are ongoing. Military and police leadership are working together to identify any further accomplices and tighten control over arms inventories. Sources indicate that a large cache of weapons, including high-powered assault rifles and large quantities of ammunition, has already been recovered as part of the operation.
The revelation has sent shockwaves through security institutions and the general public. Many citizens have expressed outrage over the breach, with civil society groups and opposition politicians calling for a transparent, independent investigation.
Public trust in the police and military has been shaken, prompting renewed demands for reform and stricter oversight.
“The trust between the public and security forces is fragile, and incidents like this severely undermine that trust.
“This cannot be allowed to pass without full accountability,” said Amina Yusuf, director of the Center for Democratic Oversight.
Meanwhile, lawmakers and security analysts are calling for a comprehensive audit of weapons stockpiles and a full review of internal monitoring systems. Experts warn that without meaningful reform, the risk of internal threats within security agencies will continue to grow.
The 33 suspects are expected to face charges including illegal arms possession, arms trafficking, conspiracy, and breach of public trust. If convicted, they could face lengthy prison terms and be permanently dismissed from service.
Military prosecutors are preparing to file formal charges in the coming weeks.
As investigations continue, the Ministry of Defense and Police Command have yet to issue official public statements but are expected to address the media soon. The incident has become a critical test of the government’s commitment to addressing corruption and strengthening the integrity of its security forces.
