Troops of Sector 7, Operation ENDURING PEACE, have intercepted a cache of illegal firearms in an intelligence-led operation in Kaduna State, disrupting a suspected arms trafficking network operating across Nigeria’s North-Central region.
The operation followed credible intelligence indicating that illicit weapons were being transported from Jos, Plateau State, to an intended recipient in Niger State, the Nigerian Army said in an operational update.
Acting on the intelligence, troops mounted a targeted stop-and-search operation at the Samaru Checkpoint in Zangon Kataf Local Government Area of Kaduna State, where they intercepted an ash-coloured Mercedes-Benz suspected of conveying the weapons.
A thorough search of the vehicle led to the recovery of three locally fabricated AK-47 rifles and four submachine guns (SMGs) concealed inside the vehicle.
During the operation, one of the suspects reportedly attempted to evade arrest but was shot while trying to escape. He was immediately evacuated to the Sector 7 Medical Centre in Kafanchan, where he is receiving treatment.
Preliminary investigations indicate that the recovered firearms were allegedly supplied by two suspected arms dealers based in Jos and were being transported to a recipient in Niger State, suggesting the existence of an organised arms trafficking route spanning multiple states.
The Nigerian Army said “the interception underscores the importance of intelligence-driven operations in disrupting criminal supply chains and preventing the proliferation of illegal weapons.”
It noted that the continued circulation of illicit firearms remains a major factor fuelling banditry, terrorism and other organised criminal activities across parts of the country.
The Army reaffirmed its commitment to working with other security agencies and local communities to dismantle criminal networks and combat the illegal movement of arms.
It also urged members of the public to continue providing credible and timely intelligence to assist security agencies in preventing arms trafficking and other threats to national security.
