Army smashes arms trafficking ring in Kaduna, seizes weapons

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By Kingsley Omonobi

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Troops of Sector 7, Operation Enduring Peace, have successfully disrupted a suspected arms trafficking syndicate and recovered a cache of illegal weapons during a coordinated, intelligence-driven operation in Kaduna State.

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The Army said, “Acting on credible intelligence regarding the movement of illicit arms from Jos, Plateau State, to Niger State, troops conducted a targeted stop-and-search operation in the early hours of Monday, 13 July 2026.

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“During the operation, an ash-coloured Mercedes-Benz was intercepted at the Samaru Checkpoint in Zangon Kataf Local Government Area.

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“A thorough search of the vehicle resulted in the recovery of three locally fabricated AK-47 rifles and four submachine guns (SMGs) carefully concealed within the vehicle.

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‘In the course of the operation, one suspect attempted to evade arrest and was shot while trying to escape.

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“He was promptly evacuated to Sector 7 Medical Centre in Kafanchan, where he is currently receiving treatment.

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“Preliminary findings indicate that the weapons were allegedly supplied by two suspected arms dealers based in Jos and were being transported to an intended recipient in Niger State.

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“This successful interception underscores the firm resolve of the Nigerian Army to disrupt arms proliferation and dismantle criminal networks that threaten national security.

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“The Nigerian Army remains committed to working in synergy with other security agencies and law-abiding citizens to deny criminal elements freedom of action and ensure the safety of lives and property across the country.

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“We therefore urge the public to continue supporting the security agencies with timely and credible information towards tracking all forms of criminality.”

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