By Atlantic Reports

Nigerian Army troops operating under Operation Enduring Peace (OPEP) say they have arrested four suspected arms fabricators and gunrunners during coordinated operations in Plateau State.

According to an operational report, the arrests took place between October 7 and 11 in Mangu and Barkin Ladi local government areas, following intelligence received on October 4 about suspected illegal arms activities.

The report identified those arrested as Ayuba Sunday Abot, described as an alleged arms fabricator operating in Heipang, Barkin Ladi, and Tangkat Danjuma, Kopdi Appollos and Nyam Nzang, whom it described as suspected gunrunners.

The allegations against the four remain subject to investigation.

Weapons and ammunition recovered

Troops reportedly recovered a locally fabricated revolver rifle, a fabricated pistol, a fabricated AK-47 barrel and an AK-47 magazine.

The report also listed 42 rounds of 7.62mm ammunition among the recovered items.

The arrests and recoveries are the military’s account of the operation. The supplied material did not include independent verification or responses from the suspects.

Alleged ammunition supplier under investigation

According to the report, preliminary interrogation indicated that the suspects bought the ammunition for ₦3,000 per round from a soldier whose identity had not been established.

That account does not establish that a soldier supplied the ammunition. Identifying the alleged supplier and corroborating the claim remain matters for investigation.

The report did not disclose evidence supporting the allegation or identify any military personnel arrested in connection with it.

The suspects and recovered items were taken to OPEP headquarters for further investigation and follow-up operations. No charges or court appearances were reported in the supplied account.

The military described the operation as part of efforts to dismantle illegal arms networks and reduce the circulation of illicit weapons in Plateau. Establishing the weapons’ sources and intended destinations will be important to determining the network’s reach and holding those involved accountable.

Atlantic Reports: Voices. People. Facts.