Army Recovers Rifles, Ammunition In Plateau Operation

Troops of the Nigerian Army have recovered two AK-47 rifles, other weapons and ammunition during an operation in Mangu Local Government Area of Plateau State.

The Army said the operation followed intelligence about a suspected plan to attack Mwar community in Chakfem Kingdom. Troops were deployed under Sector 8 of Operation Enduring Peace as part of Operation Hard Knock.

Punch reported that the intelligence was received on August 19 and linked the alleged planned attack to the reported rustling of cattle. The Army said troops used drones and other surveillance equipment to search nearby settlements and bush locations, but did not find the missing cattle.

Premium Times reported that intelligence later identified Pantong Stanley and other youths from the community as suspects. Troops raided Stanley’s residence, but he was not at home.

The Army said troops recovered one AK-47 rifle, one locally fabricated AK-47 rifle, one locally fabricated revolver rifle, two Dane guns and 15 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition from the residence.

The military said troops were working with the police and other security agencies to search other identified locations and arrest suspects connected to the weapons.

The recovery comes a day after the military moved the tactical headquarters of Operation Enduring Peace from Jos to Mangu following deadly attacks in the area. The latest operation adds another security concern for communities already dealing with repeated violence.

Sources: Punch, Premium Times