Army kills suspect, recovers two AK-47s in Plateau

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Troops of Operation ENDURING PEACE have foiled an attempt to move illicit arms through Zak Village in the Wase Local Government Area of Plateau State, recovering two AK-47 rifles and other items.

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The operation was carried out on Saturday, August 29, 2026, during a stop-and-search exercise when troops intercepted a green Volkswagen Golf vehicle for a routine search.

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A statement by the Nigerian Army on its X handle on Sunday, said a thorough inspection of the vehicle uncovered “a specially fabricated concealed compartment” within the dashboard.

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According to the Army, the driver abandoned the vehicle and fled into a nearby bush after troops directed him to open the compartment.

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“Troops immediately pursued and apprehended him,” the statement said.

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The Army said the suspect attempted to disarm one of the soldiers while being restrained, prompting troops to respond.

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“However, while being restrained, the suspect attempted to disarm one of the soldiers, prompting a swift response during which he was neutralised,” the Army said.

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A further search of the concealed compartment resulted in 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 one ATM card.

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The Army described the recovery as evidence of the effectiveness of sustained security measures aimed at disrupting the movement and proliferation of illicit arms.

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“The recovery underscores the effectiveness of sustained security measures aimed at disrupting the movement and proliferation of illicit arms,” the statement said.

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It added that the Nigerian Army, in collaboration with other security agencies, remained committed to maintaining pressure on criminal elements and securing critical routes and communities across the country.

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“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 Army said.

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The military also urged members of the public to remain vigilant and provide credible information about suspicious movements and activities to security agencies.

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