In a major pre-Christmas security operation, Nigerian Army troops have arrested a suspected gunrunner and seized a significant cache of weapons in Plateau State. The military says the moves are part of a direct effort to ensure peace during the holiday season.

The suspect was caught on Friday at a military checkpoint in the Mairana community of Mangu Local Government Area. Acting on a tip, soldiers discovered he was carrying two boxes filled with 1,400 rounds of ammunition. The seized bullets are of the 7.62mm (Special) type, often used in assault rifles.

In a connected operation early Friday, troops raided a suspected criminal hideout in Gwender Village, Bokkos Local Government Area. The suspects there escaped before soldiers arrived. However, a search of the site yielded a locally made AK-47 rifle, a pistol, and various ammunition.

The military credited “credible intelligence” for the success of both missions. The operations involved collaboration between army troops and tactical teams from an intelligence agency, identified in some reports as the Department of State Services.

The arrested suspect is currently in military custody. Officials confirm that investigations are ongoing and that troops are actively working to track down other members of the alleged criminal network.

In a statement, Major Samson Zhakom, a spokesman for the operation, reassured residents of Plateau State of the military’s commitment to safety. He urged the public to continue providing security forces with timely information to support ongoing efforts to maintain peace.