The Benin Republic has ordered a total closure of its border with certain communities in Nigeria's Kwara State due to growing concerns over alleged arms smuggling and the emergence of a new terror group known as "Mahmuda." The closure affects the border route between Taberu, a village in Baruten Local Government Area of Kwara State, and Tanu, a neighboring village in Benin Republic.
According to sources gathered, the President of Benin Republic made the decision on Tuesday, May 7, 2024, citing intelligence reports on frequent illegal importation of arms and ammunition from Benin into Nigeria. A local security personnel confirmed the development, stating that the closure restricts the movement of goods and services between the two countries.
A viral video recorded by an unidentified source alleged that the closure followed investigations into the smuggling of arms and ammunition via the air route from Parakou, the capital of Borgou Department in Benin. The narrator claimed that some individuals bring in arms and ammunition from Parakou, which is believed to be a major hub for the smuggling operation.
The source further stated that helicopters are used to deliver the weapons into Nigerian territory, but the exact destinations of the shipments remain unknown. The narrator added that some individuals had taken steps to block the border route between Taberu and Tanu, a key path linking Nigeria and Benin Republic.
The closure is believed to be linked to growing fears about the activities of the new militant group known as Mahmuda, which is suspected to be behind a recent rise in cross-border attacks and illegal arms trade in the region.
When contacted, the Nigerian Customs Service Public Relations Officer, Abdullahi Maiwanda, said he would make findings and get back, but did not provide further comments at the time.
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