Troops of Operation ENDURING PEACE (OPEP) have foiled an alleged attempt to transport illicit arms through Zak Village in Wase Local Government Area of Plateau State, recovering two AK-47 rifles and other items during a stop-and-search operation.
The operation was carried out on August 29, 2026, as part of ongoing efforts to curb the movement and proliferation of illegal weapons in the state.
The troops reportedly intercepted a green Volkswagen Golf vehicle for a routine search in Zak Village, during which a thorough inspection revealed a specially fabricated compartment concealed within the dashboard.
However, the driver allegedly abandoned the vehicle and fled into a nearby bush after he was directed to open the compartment.
Troops immediately pursued and apprehended the suspect, but he allegedly attempted to disarm one of the soldiers while being restrained, prompting a swift response during which he was neutralised.
A subsequent search of the concealed compartment led to the recovery of two AK-47 rifles, one magazine, two wooden rifle butts, nine magazine pouches, two camel bags, six jungle hats, one mobile phone and an ATM card.
The military said the recovery demonstrated the effectiveness of sustained security operations aimed at disrupting the movement and proliferation of illicit arms and preventing criminal elements from gaining access to weapons.
“The recovery underscores the effectiveness of sustained security measures aimed at disrupting the movement and proliferation of illicit arms, denying criminal elements access to weapons and preventing their use against innocent citizens and communities,” the statement said.
It added that the Nigerian Army, in collaboration with other security agencies, would sustain pressure on criminal networks and intensify efforts to secure critical routes and communities across the country.
“The Nigerian Army, in collaboration with other security agencies, remains resolute in maintaining pressure on criminal elements and securing critical routes and communities across the country,” the statement said.
According to the military, troops would continue to conduct robust stop-and-search operations and intelligence-driven interventions to detect, disrupt and dismantle networks involved in the trafficking of illicit arms and other instruments of violence.
“Troops will continue to conduct robust stop-and-search operations and intelligence-driven interventions to detect, disrupt and dismantle networks involved in the trafficking of illicit arms and other instruments of violence,” the statement added.
Members of the public were also urged to remain vigilant and provide security agencies with credible information on suspicious movements and activities in their communities.
