Intelligence-led operation intercepts vehicle at Samaru checkpoint as troops tighten crackdown on illegal arms flow

Troops of Sector 7 under Operation ENDURING PEACE have intercepted a suspected arms trafficking operation and recovered seven illegal firearms in Zangon Kataf Local Government Area of Kaduna State.

The Nigerian Army disclosed that the breakthrough followed credible intelligence indicating the movement of illicit weapons from Jos, Plateau State, to Niger State. Acting swiftly on the tip-off, troops mounted a targeted stop-and-search operation in the early hours of Monday, July 13, 2026, at the Samaru Checkpoint.

During the operation, security operatives intercepted an ash-coloured Mercedes-Benz believed to be conveying the weapons. A detailed search of the vehicle led to the discovery of three locally fabricated AK-47 rifles and four submachine guns (SMGs), which had been carefully concealed.

The Army said one suspect attempted to escape during the operation but was apprehended after sustaining injuries. He was immediately evacuated to the Sector 7 Medical Centre in Kafanchan and is currently receiving treatment.

Preliminary findings suggest the weapons were supplied by suspected arms dealers based in Jos and were being transported to an intended recipient in Niger State. Authorities say efforts are ongoing to track down and arrest other members of the trafficking network.

The Nigerian Army described the operation as a significant step in its ongoing campaign against illegal arms proliferation and criminal syndicates, reaffirming its commitment to strengthening security nationwide.

It also urged members of the public to continue providing timely and credible intelligence to support security agencies in combating crime.