Nigerian Troops Arrest Terrorists and Gunrunners in Kaduna

The Nigerian military has successfully captured three suspected terrorists and gunrunners in Kaduna State, seizing a large cache of weapons and ammunition.

The arrests were made by troops from the 37 Nigerian Defence Academy Demonstration, operating in Igabi Local Government Area.

The Defence Headquarters confirmed the operation, which took place on Thursday, following credible intelligence received by the military. According to Maj.-Gen. Markus Kangye, Director of Defence Media Operations, the suspects were apprehended while driving a black Golf 4 car with the registration number ABUJA YAB 385 K7.

The three men—Yakubu Jilbril (45), Abubakar Yahaya (45), and Isiya Sani (30)—were found in possession of arms and ammunition that were believed to be intended for criminal groups operating in the region. Among the recovered items were 9 AK-47 rifles, 389 rounds of 7.62mm (special) live ammunition, 54 rounds of 5.56mm (NATO) ammunition, 17 magazines, and several other items, including GSM handsets, a machete, charms, and an MTN Wi-Fi modem. Additionally, N365,600 in cash and suspected illicit substances were seized.

The suspects and the confiscated materials are now in military custody, where they will undergo further investigation. Maj.-Gen. Kangye emphasized that the operation was a significant blow to the activities of terrorists, armed robbers, and bandits in the region.

In response to the successful operation, the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Christopher Musa, praised the troops for their swift and effective response. He reassured the public that security operations would continue, with heightened vigilance, to safeguard the nation.

The recovered weapons serve as clear evidence of the military’s commitment to combating crime and ensuring national security. The Nigerian Armed Forces have made it clear that they are resolute in their mission to protect the public from threats posed by criminal elements.