KADUNA, NIGERIA — In a coordinated security operation, troops serving under the Joint Task Force Operation ENDURING PEACE (OPEP) and Operation FANSAN YAMMA (OPFY) have arrested two suspected gunrunners and seized more than 1,200 rounds of ammunition in Kaduna State.
The arrest took place on October 8, 2025, at a snap checkpoint on the outskirts of Saminaka, in Lere Local Government Area of Kaduna. According to a statement from Major Samson Nantip Zhakom, Media Information Officer, the operation was launched following actionable intelligence from an intelligence agency in Plateau State.
The suspects, identified as Mr. Abdullahi Balarabe, aged 40, and his wife Shafaatu Abdullahi, aged 18, were intercepted while transporting a large cache of weaponry. The troops recovered 1,207 rounds of 7.62 mm special ammunition, believed to be intended for criminal groups operating across the North West region.
After their arrest, both suspects and the confiscated ammunition were taken into custody for further investigation and efforts to dismantle the broader gunrunning network.
In the statement, Major Zhakom quoted Major General Folusho Oyinlola, the General Officer Commanding 3 Division and Commander of JTF OPEP, as commending the troops for their vigilance, bravery, and proactive efforts.
Major General Oyinlola further reiterated the importance of interagency collaboration in combatting criminal elements, vowing continued operations to suppress the activities of terrorists, gunrunners, and other criminal actors.
The arrest comes amid escalating concerns over the proliferation of illicit arms across Nigeria’s northern region. Security analysts believe that gunrunners supply local criminal gangs and bandits, contributing to the intensification of attacks, kidnappings, and violence in rural communities.
By apprehending individuals involved in the arms supply chain, security forces hope to weaken the logistical capabilities of such groups and reduce the frequency and lethality of attacks.