Troops of Operation ENDURING PEACE (OPEP) have arrested four suspected illegal arms fabricators and gunrunners during intelligence-driven operations in Mangu and Barkin Ladi Local Government Areas of Plateau State.
The operation, conducted between October 7 and 11, 2026, followed credible intelligence received on October 4 and involved troops from Sectors 8 and 4.
Those arrested were identified as Ayuba Sunday Abot, a suspected illegal arms fabricator operating in Heipang, Barkin Ladi LGA, and three suspected gunrunners, Tangkat Danjuma, Kopdi Appollos and Nyam Nzang, who allegedly operated across Mangu and Barkin Ladi LGAs.
The troops also recovered one locally fabricated revolver rifle, one locally fabricated pistol, one fabricated AK-47 barrel, one AK-47 magazine and 42 rounds of 7.62 × 54mm ammunition, among other items suspected to be connected to the alleged illegal activities.
According to the Army, the recoveries are expected to provide leads for ongoing investigations into suspected illicit arms production and distribution networks in the state.
Preliminary interrogation of the suspects reportedly produced an allegation that the recovered ammunition was purchased at ₦3,000 per round from an unidentified soldier.
The Nigerian Army, however, said the allegation remains unverified and is being investigated to establish its authenticity and determine whether anyone was involved in the alleged transaction.
The suspects and recovered items have been handed over to the Headquarters of Operation ENDURING PEACE for further investigation and necessary action.
The Army said troops were intensifying intelligence exploitation and follow-up operations aimed at identifying other members of the suspected network and dismantling illegal arms supply chains across Plateau State.
It added that the successful operations underscored its continued commitment to intelligence-led operations to curb the proliferation of illicit weapons, disrupt criminal networks and restore peace in the state.
The Nigerian Army also urged residents to continue providing credible and timely information to security agencies to support ongoing efforts to tackle criminal activities and protect lives and property.
