By Nkechi Eze
In a decisive operation against arms proliferation and terrorism, troops of the 37 Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) Demonstration Battalion have apprehended three suspected gunrunners in Kaduna State, seizing a substantial cache of weapons and ammunition.
The operation, conducted on Thursday, was the outcome of coordinated intelligence and strategic planning, according to a statement signed by the Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Markus Kangye. The suspects Yakubu Jibril (45), Abubakar Yahaya (45), and Isiya Sani (30), were intercepted while travelling in a black Golf 4 vehicle with registration number ABUJA 385 K7 along the Kauya–Old Afaka–Sabon Birni Road in Igabi Local Government Area.
Troops conducted a detailed search of the vehicle and uncovered a significant haul of arms and munitions believed to be en route to criminal groups operating in remote regions. The items recovered include nine AK-47 rifles, 389 rounds of 7.62mm (Special) live ammunition, 54 rounds of 5.56 x 45mm (NATO) ammunition, 17 rifle magazines, GSM handsets, other incriminating materials, and a cash sum of ₦365,600.
“This successful operation underscores the commitment and operational efficiency of the Nigerian Armed Forces in confronting insurgency, banditry, and other forms of criminality,” said Major General Kangye. He added that the arrested suspects are currently in custody undergoing intensive interrogation and investigation, aimed at exposing and dismantling the wider network behind the illegal arms trafficking.
The Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Gwabin Musa, has commended the troops for their swift and proactive action, emphasizing that the Armed Forces remain vigilant and steadfast in their mission to protect citizens and uphold national security.
“This operation sends a strong message to all criminal elements that the Nigerian military will stop at nothing to track, apprehend, and bring to justice anyone who threatens the peace and stability of the nation,” he stated.
