Police officers from Tarbaj Police Station in Wajir County made a significant discovery on Tuesday, July 11, when they intercepted a bus travelling from Mandera to Nairobi and recovered a firearm and ammunition.

During a routine inspection along the Tarbaj Highway, the police became suspicious after the driver and other suspects began acting strangely. Initially suspecting contraband goods, the officers initiated a search after questioning the driver, tout, and passengers.

The bus, carrying 57 passengers, was found to be transporting an AK-47 rifle with a fixed buttstock and no serial number, wrapped in a brown red mat, along with four empty AK-47 rifle magazines. Additionally, two bolt head carriers without serial numbers and 201 rounds of 7.62×39mm ammunition were discovered.

The firearms and ammunition had been concealed under the rear passenger seats of the bus. Despite thorough questioning, the police were unable to extract information regarding the owner of the items. As a result, they took decisive action and arrested several suspects, including the driver, conductor, mechanic, and two passengers, to assist in the ongoing investigations.

The bus was detained at Tarbaj Police Station as authorities sought to unravel the mystery surrounding the owner and intended destination of the firearms and ammunition.

The recovered items were held at the police station, awaiting collection by the Tactical Police Unit (TPU) Wajir detachment. The case was assigned to the Anti-Terrorism Police Unit (ATPU) in Wajir for further investigation.

Under the Firearms Act, it is illegal for individuals to possess firearms or ammunition without a valid firearm certificate. Transporting firearms or ammunition within Kenya without a removal permit issued by a licensing officer is also prohibited.

Moreover, the Act stipulates that tampering with the serial number of a firearm or being found in possession of a firearm with an obliterated serial number is a criminal offense, punishable by imprisonment for a period of five to ten years.

The police's swift action in intercepting the bus and apprehending the suspects highlights their commitment to ensuring public safety and combating the illegal possession and transportation of firearms.