Police detain Delta resident for illicit firearm purchase made through social media platform

The Delta State Police Command has apprehended a suspect who allegedly bought a restricted firearm via social media, with the individual found to be in possession of a Beretta pistol.

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The state Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe, revealed this information in a video posted on Tuesday, showcasing the recovered weapon and cautioning against the growing trend of unlawful arms acquisition.

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During the video, Edafe displayed the contents of a bag belonging to the suspect, pointing out a Beretta pistol and two 9mm ammunition, emphasizing that such weapons are exclusively reserved for authorized security agencies.

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The suspect, identified as Igbunu Evans from Sapele in Delta State, admitted to purchasing the firearm through Snapchat, claiming he had paid N450,000 for its delivery after ordering it from a smoke vendor.

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Evans stated that he acquired the weapon for self-protection against unknown gunmen or kidnappers, but also confessed to being involved in internet fraud for the past three to four years.

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SP Bright Edafe linked the suspect's actions to a broader pattern of criminal activity, noting that internet fraud, cultism, substance abuse, and gun possession are all interconnected crimes.

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Edafe stressed that it is illegal for individuals to possess prohibited firearms like the Beretta pistol, which can only be used by government security agencies, and that no one is allowed to hold such weapons under the pretext of self-defense.

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The police spokesman confirmed that the suspect is currently in custody and will be prosecuted in court.