JOS, Nigeria — Troops of the Nigerian Army’s 3 Division and the Joint Task Force, Operation Enduring Peace (JTF OPEP), have recovered a large cache of arms and ammunition during a raid in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area of Plateau State, the military said.
Acting on intelligence that bandits were stockpiling weapons as part of an illegal proliferation network, soldiers on a targeted operation stormed a hideout in Rawaya village near Kazok, Major Samson Zhakom, JTF OPEP’s media information officer, said in a statement.
Although the suspected ringleader escaped before troops arrived, a search of the location turned up multiple weapons and supplies, including:
- Two AK-47 rifles and one G3 rifle
- One revolver pistol
- Four AK-47 magazines and three G3 magazines
- 1,198 rounds of 7.62mm (special) ammunition and four rounds of 7.62mm (NATO)
- Three mobile phones and other assorted items
The recovered items are in military custody for further investigation, Zhakom said, adding that efforts are underway to track down the fleeing suspect and accomplices.
The operation “underscores the military’s resolve to dismantle criminal networks and curb illegal arms circulation within the state,” he noted. JTF OPEP reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding communities across its joint operations area and said troops would continue decisive actions against groups threatening peace and stability in Plateau State.
