The Nigerian Army has intercepted suspected arms traffickers and recovered seven illegal firearms during an intelligence-led operation in Kaduna State.

Troops of Sector 7, Operation ENDURING PEACE, carried out the operation after receiving credible intelligence on the movement of illicit weapons from Jos, Plateau State, to Niger State.

The troops conducted a targeted stop-and-search operation in the early hours of Monday, July 13, 2026, and intercepted an ash-coloured Mercedes-Benz at the Samaru Checkpoint in Zangon Kataf Local Government Area.

A thorough search of the vehicle led to the recovery of three locally fabricated AK-47 rifles and four submachine guns (SMGs) concealed inside the car.

During the operation, one suspect allegedly attempted to escape arrest and was shot while fleeing. He was immediately evacuated to the Sector 7 Medical Centre in Kafanchan, where he is currently receiving treatment.

Preliminary investigations indicate that the recovered weapons were allegedly supplied by two suspected arms dealers based in Jos and were being transported to an intended recipient in Niger State.

The Nigerian Army said the successful operation demonstrates its continued commitment to combating the proliferation of illegal arms and dismantling criminal networks threatening national security.

The Army also reaffirmed its resolve to work in collaboration with other security agencies and members of the public to curb criminal activities, urging citizens to continue providing timely and credible information to support security operations across the country. Visit www.jocomms.com for more news.