TROOPS INTERCEPT ARMS SHIPMENT, NEUTRALISE SUSPECT IN PLATEAU

Troops of Operation ENDURING PEACE have foiled an attempt to transport illicit firearms through Zak Village in Wase Local Government Area of Plateau State, recovering two AK-47 rifles and other military-related items.

The operation was conducted on Saturday, August 29, 2026, during a routine stop-and-search exercise. The troops intercepted a green Volkswagen Golf vehicle and subjected it to a thorough inspection.

According to the Nigerian Army, the search uncovered a specially constructed concealed compartment inside the vehicle's dashboard. The compartment was reportedly designed to hide the firearms and other items from security personnel.

The driver allegedly abandoned the vehicle and fled into a nearby bush after troops ordered him to open the concealed compartment. Soldiers pursued him and eventually apprehended the suspect.

The Army said the suspect resisted arrest and attempted to disarm one of the soldiers while he was being restrained. The troops subsequently responded, resulting in the suspect being neutralised.

A further search of the vehicle and the concealed compartment led to the recovery of two AK-47 rifles and one magazine.

The troops also recovered two wooden rifle butts, nine magazine pouches, two camel bags and six jungle hats during the operation.

Other items recovered from the suspect and vehicle included a mobile phone and an ATM card, which may assist security agencies in their ongoing investigation into the movement of the weapons.

The Army described the operation as another indication of the effectiveness of sustained security measures aimed at disrupting the illegal movement and proliferation of firearms across the country.

It said troops would continue to conduct stop-and-search operations as well as intelligence-driven interventions to identify and dismantle networks involved in arms trafficking and other criminal activities.

The military also reaffirmed its commitment to working with other security agencies to secure critical routes and communities in Plateau State and other parts of the country.

The recovery comes amid continued security challenges in parts of Plateau and other North-Central states, where authorities have intensified efforts to prevent the movement of illegal weapons and restrict the activities of criminal groups.

The Nigerian Army urged members of the public to remain vigilant and provide credible information about suspicious movements and activities that could assist security agencies in preventing crime.

The latest operation is expected to contribute to efforts to cut off the supply of firearms to criminal elements and strengthen security along routes used for the movement of illicit weapons.