Troops kill fleeing suspected criminal, recover 2 rifles in Plateau

Sunday, August 30, 2026 - Troops of Operation ENDURING PEACE have foiled an attempt to move illicit arms through Zak Village in the Wase Local Government Area of Plateau State, recovering two AK-47 rifles and other items.

The operation was carried out on Saturday, August 29, 2026, during a stop-and-search exercise when troops intercepted a green Volkswagen Golf vehicle for a routine search.

A statement by the Nigerian Army on its X handle on Sunday, said a thorough inspection of the vehicle uncovered “a specially fabricated concealed compartment” within the dashboard.

According to the Army, the driver abandoned the vehicle and fled into a nearby bush after troops directed him to open the compartment.

“Troops immediately pursued and apprehended him,” the statement said.

The Army said the suspect attempted to disarm one of the soldiers while being restrained, prompting troops to respond.

“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 further search of the concealed compartment resulted in the recovery of two AK-47 rifles, one magazine, two wooden rifle butts, nine magazine pouches, two camel bags, six jungle hats, one mobile phone and one ATM card.

The Army described the recovery as evidence of the effectiveness of sustained security measures aimed at disrupting the movement and proliferation of illicit arms.

“The recovery underscores the effectiveness of sustained security measures aimed at disrupting the movement and proliferation of illicit arms,” the statement said.

It added that the Nigerian Army, in collaboration with other security agencies, remained committed to maintaining pressure on criminal elements and securing critical 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 military also urged members of the public to remain vigilant and provide credible information about suspicious movements and activities to security agencies.