Troops of Operation ENDURING PEACE (OPEP) have recorded another 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. The operations also led to the recovery of locally fabricated firearms, ammunition and other incriminating items, dealing a significant blow to suspected illegal arms supply networks fuelling insecurity in the state.
Acting on credible intelligence received on 4 October 2026, troops of Sectors 8 and 4 conducted coordinated covert operations between 7 and 11 October 2026, leading to the arrest of the suspects. Those apprehended include Ayuba Sunday Abot, a 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 the 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 × 54mm ammunition, alongside other items suspected to be associated with the illegal activities. The 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 the recovered ammunition was purchased at ₦3,000 per round from an unidentified soldier. The allegation, which remains unverified, is being thoroughly investigated to establish its authenticity and identify any persons who may have been involved in the alleged transaction.
The suspects and recovered items are currently in the 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 the suspected criminal network and dismantle illegal arms supply chains across the state.
The successful operations underscore the Nigerian Army’s sustained commitment to intelligence-led operations aimed at curbing the proliferation of illicit weapons, disrupting criminal networks and restoring lasting peace in Plateau State. The Nigerian Army reassures law-abiding citizens of its determination to protect lives and property while urging members of the public to continue providing credible and timely information to security agencies to facilitate ongoing operations against criminal elements.
