Plateau: Nigerian Army Seizes Weapons Cache, Foils Attack

Nigerian Army personnel successfully seized a cache of AK-47 rifles, various other weapons, and ammunition during a recent operation conducted in the Mangu Local Government Area of Plateau State. The military engagement, carried out by troops under Sector 8 of Operation ENDURING PEACE, as part of the broader Operation HARD KNOCK, was initiated based on actionable intelligence.

This critical intelligence, received on August 19, 2026, indicated an imminent assault by suspected bandit militias targeting the Mwar Community within the Chakfem Kingdom. Initial assessments by the Army suggest a potential connection between this planned attack and the reported rustling of an unspecified number of cattle, allegedly perpetrated by certain youths from the affected community.

In a statement shared on Thursday via its official X handle, the Army confirmed the immediate deployment of troops. The objective was clear: to conduct a fighting patrol and raid suspected hideouts, with the dual aim of recovering the stolen cattle and arresting those responsible. Furthermore, drones and other advanced surveillance tools were deployed by the troops to meticulously search surrounding settlements and bush areas for the missing livestock; however, no traces of the animals were discovered after a comprehensive search.

Army intelligence subsequently pinpointed Pantong Stanley and other young individuals from the community as the suspected perpetrators. Acting on this lead, troops proceeded to conduct a swift raid on Pantong Stanley's residence. Although Stanley was not present during the operation, the raid yielded significant results.

Authorities recovered one standard AK-47 rifle, one locally manufactured AK-47 rifle, one locally fabricated revolver rifle, two Dane guns, and 15 rounds of 7.62mm Special ammunition.

The Army emphasized that these offensive operations and targeted searches are ongoing. Troops are working collaboratively with the police and other relevant security agencies, focusing on areas linked to other identified suspects. These continued efforts are geared towards recovering the missing cattle, uncovering additional hidden arms caches, and apprehending all individuals involved.

The Nigerian Army appealed to the public to maintain vigilance and promptly share any credible information regarding suspicious activities with security agencies. It reiterated its unwavering commitment to “safeguarding lives and property” and fostering a secure environment essential for peaceful coexistence throughout Plateau State and the broader North Central region. The Army concluded by stating, “The Nigerian Army remains resolute in preventing the proliferation of illegal arms, protecting vulnerable communities and denying criminal elements the freedom to undermine peace and security in Plateau State.”