By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini
Troops of Sector 7, Operation ENDURING PEACE, have intercepted a large cache of illegal weapons during a targeted operation at a checkpoint in Kaduna State, dealing a blow to a suspected arms trafficking network.
Acting on intelligence about weapons being moved from Jos to Niger State, soldiers stopped an ash-coloured Mercedes-Benz at the Samaru Checkpoint in Zangon Kataf Local Government Area in the early hours of Monday. A search of the vehicle uncovered three locally fabricated AK-47 rifles and four submachine guns (SMGs) carefully hidden inside.
One suspect attempted to flee the scene and was shot by troops during the escape attempt. He is currently receiving medical treatment at the Sector 7 Medical Centre in Kafanchan.
Preliminary investigations suggest that the weapons were supplied by two suspected dealers based in Jos and were destined for a recipient in Niger State.
The Nigerian Army described the seizure as a testament to its resolve to curb arms proliferation and dismantle criminal networks. Authorities have called on the public to continue providing timely information to security agencies to help track criminal activities.
