Troops Bust Illegal Arms Factory in Plateau, Arrest Suspects

Troops under Operation Enduring Peace have uncovered and dismantled an illegal arms manufacturing site in Gwandanu Village, Langtang North Local Government Area of Plateau State, dealing a major setback to the spread of illicit weapons.

The operation, carried out around 5:00 pm on Wednesday, April 22, 2026, led to the arrest of two suspects who were caught producing firearms. Soldiers also recovered a cache of weapons and equipment used in the illegal operation.

According to the Media Information Officer of the Joint Task Force, Captain Chinonso Polycarp Oteh, items seized include two AK-47 rifles and one G3 rifle, along with tools such as generating sets, a welding machine, a drilling machine, and a complete technical toolbox used in fabricating weapons.

In a separate operation in Gidan Waya, Jema’a Local Government Area of Kaduna State, troops responded to an attack on Forest Guards and members of the Vigilante Group. Working together, they chased the attackers toward the Jaginde Forest area.

On sighting the advancing troops near Ungwar Maruwa, the suspects fled, abandoning a motorcycle. One of them was later apprehended during the pursuit.

A search of their hideout led to the recovery of additional weapons, including an AK-47 rifle and an AK-49 rifle, as well as a motorcycle and a sleeping mat. The arrested suspects are currently in custody as investigations continue to uncover possible links to wider criminal networks.

The military said it has intensified follow-up operations to track down other suspects and recover more illegal weapons still in circulation.

Authorities reaffirmed their commitment to restoring peace and urged residents to provide timely information to support ongoing security efforts.