Troops of the Nigerian Army have arrested a suspected gun runner and recovered 245 pump action cartridges in Cross River State during an intelligence led operation.
The arrest was carried out by soldiers of the 245 Battalion under the Headquarters of the 13 Brigade, Nigerian Army, in Abi Local Government Area of the state on Sunday.
The suspect, identified as Ojo Friday, was apprehended following credible intelligence on the movement of illegal arms within the area. He is an indigene of Ochon community in Obubra Local Government Area of Cross River State but is said to be residing in Abomege, Ebonyi State.
According to the Army, the recovered ammunition was allegedly intended for illegal distribution within and outside the area.
Confirming the development in a statement issued on Tuesday, the Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, 13 Brigade, Major Yemi Sokoya, said the suspect and the recovered cartridges had been taken into custody for further investigation.
“The suspect and the recovered items have been secured in custody, and preliminary investigations are ongoing,” Sokoya said.
Reacting to the operation, the Commander of the 13 Brigade Nigerian Army, Brigadier General Peter Olusegun Alimikhena, said the arrest reflected the Army’s commitment to intelligence driven security operations.
“This operation demonstrates our proactive approach to internal security and our determination to disrupt illegal arms supply chains that pose serious threats to peace and stability,” Alimikhena said.
He added that the Nigerian Army would continue to work closely with other security agencies and host communities to curb the spread of small arms and light weapons across the state.
“The Nigerian Army, under 13 Brigade, will sustain collaboration with sister security agencies and local communities to prevent the proliferation of small arms and light weapons. We remain committed to ensuring a safe and secure environment for socio economic activities within our area of responsibility,” he stated.
The Brigade Commander also commended the troops involved in the operation for their professionalism and vigilance, while urging members of the public to continue to support security agencies with timely and credible information.
