A suspected scavenger dealing in scrap iron has been arrested with a pump action rifle in Auchi, Etsako West Local Government Area of Edo State, sparking fresh concerns over the infiltration of dangerous weapons into rural communities.
The incident, which occurred on Wednesday, 2nd July 2025, was brought to public attention via a viral video shared by a Facebook user, Lucky Igbinedion. The clip showed the unidentified suspect—believed to be a migrant worker—tied up and being questioned by local vigilantes.
According to eyewitness accounts, the suspect was apprehended after local security agents discovered the firearm in his possession. In the video, the man appeared unable to provide clear answers about the weapon’s origin or purpose, further fuelling suspicion. He was also seen being flogged by the vigilantes before being handed over to officers of the Nigeria Police in Auchi for further investigation.
While the incident has stirred intense reactions across social media platforms, with many expressing alarm over the growing trend of non-state actors bearing arms, the Edo State Police Command has yet to issue an official statement.
When contacted, the command’s Public Relations Officer, CSP Moses Yamu, declined to comment, stating that investigations were still ongoing.
Residents have called on the authorities to intensify efforts to rid communities of illegal arms and unregulated scavenging operations, which they say have become a growing security risk.
This latest arrest adds to the growing list of security incidents across Edo State, as communities increasingly rely on vigilante groups to fill the gap left by under-resourced formal policing.
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