13 October 2026 3:01 pm WAT
Troops of Operation Enduring Peace have arrested four suspected illegal arms fabricators and gunrunners during coordinated intelligence-driven operations in Mangu and Barkin Ladi Local Government Areas of Plateau State.
The operations, which also led to the recovery of locally fabricated firearms, ammunition and other incriminating items, dealt a significant blow to suspected illegal arms supply networks fuelling insecurity in the state.
According to the Nigerian Army, troops of Sectors 8 and 4 acted on credible intelligence received on October 4 and conducted covert operations between October 7 and 11.
Those arrested include Ayuba Sunday Abot, a suspected illegal arms fabricator operating in Heipang, Barkin Ladi, and three suspected gunrunners identified as Tangkat Danjuma, Kopdi Appollos and Nyam Nzang, who allegedly operated across Mangu and Barkin Ladi.
Items recovered 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 the illegal activities.
Preliminary interrogation reportedly revealed an allegation that the recovered ammunition was purchased at N3,000 per round from an unidentified soldier.
The Army said the allegation remains unverified and is being thoroughly investigated.
The suspects and recovered items are currently in the custody of Headquarters, Operation Enduring Peace, for further investigation and necessary action, while troops are intensifying intelligence exploitation and follow-up operations to identify other members of the suspected network.
The Army said the operation underscores its sustained commitment to intelligence-led operations aimed at curbing proliferation of illicit weapons and restoring lasting peace in Plateau State, urging members of the public to continue providing credible information.
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