Troops intercept wanted illegal arms supplier with weapons in Kaduna

The Nigerian Army on Saturday said its troops in collaboration with other security agencies, intercepted a notorious gun runner, Mallam Hashimu Ahmad, at Saminaka in Lere Local Government Area of Kaduna State.

In a statement on its Department of Army Public Relations WhatsApp platform, it said the suspect, who has been on the wanted list of the security agencies for supplying arms and ammunition to terrorists was captured while on transit to deliver sophisticated weapons, including one General Purpose Machine Gun, a Rocket Propelled Grenade Launcher, one RPG bomb, 1,069 rounds of 7.62mm (special) ammunition and one belt of 7.62mm NATO ammunition.

“The cache of arms and ammunition, as well as the vehicle used in conveying them, were fully recovered.

“Similarly, in Delta State, troops acting on credible intelligence have intercepted a tanker truck laden with 15, 000 liters of substance suspected to be illegally refined AGO at Ozoro, in Isoko North Local Government Area,” the statement affirmed.

According to the statement, the troops have also taken the two suspects conveying the illegal product into custody for preliminary investigation, preparatory to handing over to the appropriate prosecuting agency.

Also, in Sokoto State, troops on patrol in the general area of Matalawa village of Isa Local Government Area have successfully rescued kidnap hostages who were abducted and taken into the forest while on transit.

Responding to distress calls, the troops moved swiftly to the location, where they engaged the kidnappers in a gun duel, leading to the extrication of the hostages.

The rescued hostages have been reunited with their families.

“The Nigerian Army remains committed to protecting the nation and dismantling all criminal networks, inducing insecurity in the country. We, therefore, enjoin the public to support the troops by providing actionable information to enhance troops’ operations against terrorists and other criminal elements to ensure a safe and secure society,” the statement said.