Nigerian Army Intercepts Suspected Arms Traffickers, Recovers Illegal Weapons in Kaduna

By Aviashima Toom, Abuja

Troops of Sector 7, Operation ENDURING PEACE, have intercepted suspected arms traffickers and recovered a cache of illegal weapons during an intelligence-led operation in Kaduna State.

The operation, conducted in the early hours of Monday, July 13, 2026, followed credible intelligence indicating that a consignment of illicit weapons was being transported from Jos, Plateau State, to Niger State.

According to the Nigerian Army, troops mounted a targeted stop-and-search operation at the Samaru Checkpoint in Zangon Kataf Local Government Area, where they intercepted an ash-coloured Mercedes-Benz suspected to be conveying the weapons.

A search of the vehicle led to the recovery of three locally fabricated AK-47 rifles and four submachine guns (SMGs), which were carefully concealed inside the vehicle.

During the operation, one of the suspects reportedly attempted to flee arrest and was shot while trying to escape. The suspect was immediately evacuated to the Sector 7 Medical Centre in Kafanchan, where he is currently receiving medical treatment.

Preliminary investigations indicate that the recovered weapons were allegedly supplied by two suspected arms dealers based in Jos and were being transported to an intended recipient in Niger State.

The Nigerian Army said the successful operation highlights its continued efforts to curb the proliferation of illegal arms and dismantle criminal networks threatening national security.

The Army reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with other security agencies and members of the public to combat criminal activities across the country. It also urged citizens to continue providing timely and credible information to support ongoing security operations and enhance the safety of lives and property.