Troops of Operation ENDURING PEACE, OPEP, have recorded operational breakthrough in Plateau State, arresting four suspected illegal arms fabricators and gunrunners during coordinated intelligence-driven operations in Mangu and Barkin Ladi Local Government Areas.
Operations also led to recovery of locally fabricated firearms, ammunition and other incriminating items, dealing significant blow to suspected illegal arms supply networks fuelling insecurity in state.
Acting on credible intelligence received on October 4, 2026, troops of Sectors 8 and 4 conducted coordinated covert operations between October 7 and 11, 2026, leading to arrest of suspects.
Those apprehended include Ayuba Sunday Abot, suspected illegal arms fabricator operating in Heipang, Barkin Ladi LGA, and three suspected gunrunners identified as Tangkat Danjuma, Kopdi Appollos and Nyam Nzang, who allegedly operated across Mangu and Barkin Ladi LGAs.
Items recovered during operations include one locally fabricated revolver rifle, one locally fabricated pistol, one fabricated AK-47 barrel, one AK-47 magazine and 42 rounds of 7.62 x 54mm ammunition, alongside other items suspected to be associated with illegal activities.
Recoveries are expected to provide valuable leads in ongoing investigations aimed at uncovering illicit arms production and distribution networks.
Preliminary interrogation reportedly revealed allegations that recovered ammunition was purchased at N3,000 per round from unidentified soldier. Allegation, which remains unverified, is being thoroughly investigated to establish its authenticity and identify any persons who may have been involved in alleged transaction.
Suspects and recovered items are currently in custody of Headquarters, Operation ENDURING PEACE, for further investigation and necessary action.
Troops are also intensifying intelligence exploitation and follow-up operations to identify other members of suspected criminal network and dismantle illegal arms supply chains across state.
Successful operations underscore Nigerian Army’s sustained commitment to intelligence-led operations aimed at curbing proliferation of illicit weapons, disrupting criminal networks and restoring lasting peace in Plateau State.
Nigerian Army reassures law-abiding citizens of its determination to protect lives and property while urging members of public to continue providing credible and timely information to security agencies to facilitate ongoing operations against criminal elements.
