Troops of Enduring Peace have arrested four suspected illegal arms fabricators and gunrunners during coordinated intelligence-driven operations in the Mangu and Barkin Ladi Local Government Areas of Plateau State. 

The Nigerian Army said on Tuesday that the operation also led to the recovery of locally fabricated firearms, ammunition and other incriminating items.

It stated that the operation dealt a blow to suspected illegal arms supply networks fuelling insecurity in the state.

“Acting on credible intelligence received on 4 October 2026, troops of Sectors 8 and 4 conducted coordinated covert operations between 7 and 11 October 2026, leading to the arrest of the suspects,” it said. 

The arrested suspects include Ayuba Sunday Abot, a suspected illegal arms fabricator operating in Heipang, Barkin Ladi LGA, and three suspected gunrunners identified as Tangkat Danjuma, Kopdi Appollos and Nyam Nzang, who allegedly operated across Mangu and Barkin Ladi LGAs.

The statement explained that items recovered during the operations include one locally fabricated revolver rifle, one locally fabricated pistol, one fabricated AK-47 barrel, one AK-47 magazine and 42 rounds of 7.62 × 54mm ammunition, alongside other items suspected to be associated with the illegal activities. 

“The recoveries are expected to provide valuable leads in ongoing investigations aimed at uncovering illicit arms production and distribution networks.

“Preliminary interrogation reportedly revealed allegations that the recovered ammunition was purchased at ₦3,000 per round from an unidentified soldier,” it said. 

It noted that the allegation is being thoroughly investigated to establish its authenticity and identify any persons who may have been involved in the alleged transaction.

It added that the suspects and recovered items were in the custody of the troops’ headquarters for further investigation and necessary action.