Troops of Operation ENDURING PEACE have intercepted a vehicle allegedly being used to transport illicit firearms in Plateau State, recovering two AK-47 rifles and other military-related items.
The Punch reported that the operation took place on Saturday, August 29, 2026, in Zak Village, Wase Local Government Area, during a stop-and-search exercise conducted by the troops.
According to the Nigerian Army, the soldiers stopped a green Volkswagen Golf for a routine inspection and discovered a specially constructed hidden compartment inside the vehicle’s dashboard.
The Army disclosed this in a statement posted on its X handle on Sunday.
The driver reportedly abandoned the vehicle and attempted to escape into a nearby bush after soldiers instructed him to open the concealed compartment. The troops pursued him and eventually apprehended him.
The Army said the suspect, while being restrained, attempted to disarm one of the soldiers, leading to the use of force against him.
“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.
A subsequent search of the concealed compartment led to the recovery of two AK-47 rifles, one magazine, two wooden rifle butts and nine magazine pouches.
Also recovered were two camel bags, six jungle hats, a mobile phone and an ATM card.
The Army said the seizure demonstrated the impact of sustained security operations aimed at preventing the movement and spread of illegal arms.
“The recovery underscores the effectiveness of sustained security measures aimed at disrupting the movement and proliferation of illicit arms,” the statement said.
The military added that it would continue working with other security agencies to intensify operations against criminal networks and secure major routes and communities across the country.
“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.
The Army also called on residents to remain alert and provide security agencies with credible information on suspicious activities and movements.
