Troops of 3 Division of the Nigerian Army, under the Joint Task Force Operation ENDURING PEACE (JTF OPEP), have arrested a suspected gunrunner and recovered arms and a large cache of ammunition during intelligence-led operations in Plateau State.

The operations, carried out on December 19, 2025, were part of ongoing efforts to curb the proliferation of illegal arms and ensure a peaceful yuletide season across the state.

According to a statement by the Media Information Officer of JTF Operation ENDURING PEACE, Major Samson Nantip Zhakom, troops in the early hours of the day raided a hideout of suspected criminal elements at Gwender Village in Bokkos Local Government Area.

Although the suspects escaped shortly before the arrival of the troops, a search of the location led to the recovery of a locally fabricated AK-47 rifle with a magazine, a locally made pistol, and several rounds of ammunition of different calibres.

In a related operation, troops working in collaboration with an intelligence agency’s tactical team set up a snap checkpoint at Mairana in Mangu Local Government Area following credible intelligence.

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During the operation, a suspect was intercepted while transporting two boxes of ammunition containing 1,400 rounds of 7.62mm (Special) ammunition.

The suspect was immediately arrested, while the recovered arms and ammunition are currently in military custody pending further investigation.

Troops have also commenced follow-up operations to track down and arrest other members of the criminal network linked to the arms supply.

The Joint Task Force reassured residents of Plateau State of its commitment to protecting lives and property and sustaining peace across the state.

It also urged members of the public to continue supporting security operations by providing timely and credible information to aid ongoing efforts to combat criminal activities.

LUKMAN ABDULMALIK
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