Troops of the Nigerian Army under the 3 Division/Joint Task Force, Operation Enduring Peace (JTF OPEP), have intercepted a large cache of ammunition and arrested a suspect during intelligence-driven security operations in Plateau State.
According to the task force, the arrest took place on Friday at a temporary checkpoint mounted at Mairana, within Mangu Local Government Area, after security agencies received credible intelligence on the movement of illicit arms. The operation forms part of intensified measures to maintain calm and public safety during the yuletide period.
Interception at Mangu
Confirming the development, the spokesperson of JTF OPEP, Major Samson Zhakom, said troops working alongside a tactical team from an intelligence agency stopped an individual who was found conveying ammunition.
• Items recovered: Two boxes containing 1,400 rounds of 7.62mm (Special) ammunition
• Status of suspect: Arrested and currently in custody
• Next steps: Investigation ongoing to determine the source and intended destination of the ammunition
Separate Raid in Bokkos
In a related operation carried out in the early hours of 19 December 2025, troops also raided a suspected criminal hideout at Gwender Village in Bokkos Local Government Area.
Although the occupants reportedly fled shortly before the arrival of security personnel, a search of the location led to the recovery of:
• One fabricated AK-47 rifle with a magazine
• One locally made pistol
• Several rounds of ammunition of different calibres
Assurance to Residents
Major Zhakom emphasized that the coordinated operations reflect the military’s resolve to rid Plateau State of illegal arms and criminal networks. He reassured residents of the task force’s commitment to protecting lives and property, particularly during the festive season.
He also appealed to members of the public to continue supporting security efforts by providing timely and credible information, noting that follow-up operations are underway to track down other members of the suspected syndicate.
Source: Africa Publicity
