The Missing Assault Rifle case in Taraba has raised security concerns as police detain an inspector and his girlfriend while intensifying efforts to recover the weapon.
The Taraba State Police Command has launched an intensive investigation following the disappearance of a service firearm assigned to one of its officers along the Wukari–Jootar Federal Highway, a key transit route linking parts of Taraba and Benue states.
The incident has raised fresh concerns about internal discipline, arms control, and public safety within the security architecture of the state.
According to security analyst Zagazola Makam, the Missing Assault Rifle belongs to Inspector Joshua Charles, a 45-year-old officer attached to the Safer Highway Patrol team tasked with securing the busy corridor.
The patrol unit plays a crucial role in preventing armed robbery, kidnapping, and other criminal activities along the highway, making the loss of a service weapon particularly troubling for security agencies.
Preliminary findings indicate that the incident occurred on December 25, 2025.
At about 3:00 p.m., Inspector Charles reportedly left his assigned duty post and travelled to Wukari town for personal reasons.
He allegedly did so without formally handing over his firearm or ensuring proper safeguarding procedures, leaving three colleagues—Inspectors Haruna Galadima, Isah Waziri, and Umar Mohammed—to continue patrol duties in his absence.
Several hours later, events took a more complicated turn. At approximately 8:30 p.m., the inspector’s girlfriend, identified as Ruth Alphancis from the Sabon Gari area of Jalingo, reportedly returned to their shared residence after a trip to Jootar village in Benue State.
Police sources revealed that Alphancis, who has been cohabiting with the officer since August 2025, claimed she noticed an unidentified individual fleeing the house under suspicious circumstances.
When Inspector Charles later returned from Wukari town, he allegedly discovered that his Type 06 assault rifle was no longer in the room where he said he had kept it.
The Missing Assault Rifle was reportedly loaded with 25 rounds of live ammunition at the time it went missing, increasing fears that it could fall into the hands of criminals.
The breach number of the firearm could not be immediately confirmed, complicating initial tracking efforts.
Police sources further alleged that the inspector was in an intoxicated state when he discovered the loss, a claim that has now become part of the ongoing investigation.
While authorities have not officially confirmed this allegation, it has intensified scrutiny around possible negligence and misconduct.
Following the report, senior police operatives swiftly visited the scene to assess the situation.
The Taraba State Police Command immediately ordered the detention of both the inspector and his girlfriend to aid a thorough investigation.
Officials said the decision was necessary to establish the sequence of events, identify lapses in firearm handling, and rule out internal compromise.
Beyond internal questioning, the police have expanded their response to include a coordinated firearm recovery operation.
Local residents, community leaders, and licensed hunters have been mobilised to assist security operatives in searching nearby bushes, settlements, and transit routes where the Missing Assault Rifle could have been concealed or moved.
Security experts warn that the disappearance of a service weapon poses serious risks, particularly in regions already grappling with armed violence.
A missing rifle, they argue, can easily fuel criminal activities such as banditry or communal clashes if not swiftly recovered.
The Taraba State Police Command has reiterated its commitment to professionalism and accountability, stressing that any officer found negligent or complicit will face appropriate disciplinary and legal consequences.
Authorities also assured the public that measures are being taken to prevent a recurrence, including tighter firearm control protocols and renewed emphasis on duty ethics.
As investigations continue, residents along the Wukari–Jootar Highway have been urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity.
Police officials insist that the recovery of the Missing Assault Rifle remains a top priority, noting that public cooperation will be critical to resolving the case quickly.
The incident serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between security enforcement and internal discipline within law enforcement agencies.
Observers say how the case is handled could set an important precedent for accountability and transparency in policing across the region.
Ireport247news
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