Troops of Operation ENDURING PEACE (OPEP), have foiled an attempt to move illicit arms through Zak Village in Wase Local Government Area of Plateau State, recovering two AK-47 rifles and other items during a stop-and-search operation on 29 August 2026.
During the operation, troops intercepted a green-coloured Volkswagen Golf vehicle for a routine search. A thorough inspection of the vehicle revealed a specially fabricated concealed compartment within the dashboard. When directed to open the compartment, the driver abandoned the vehicle and fled into a nearby bush. Troops immediately pursued and apprehended him. However, while being restrained, the suspect attempted to disarm one of the soldiers, prompting a swift response during which he was neutralised.
A further search of the concealed compartment led to the recovery of two AK-47 rifles, one magazine, two wooden rifle butts, nine magazine pouches, two camel bags, six jungle hats, one mobile phone and one ATM card. The recovery underscores the effectiveness of sustained security measures aimed at disrupting the movement and proliferation of illicit arms, denying criminal elements access to weapons and preventing their use against innocent citizens and communities.
The Nigerian Army in collaboration with other security agencies remain resolute in maintaining pressure on criminal elements and securing critical routes and communities across the country. Troops will continue to conduct robust stop-and-search operations and intelligence-driven interventions to detect, disrupt and dismantle networks involved in the trafficking of illicit arms and other instruments of violence.
Members of the public are urged to remain vigilant and promptly provide credible information on suspicious movements and activities to security agencies.
