Army arrests suspected female gunrunner in Plateau, rescues kidnap victim in Edo

In Plateau State, troops operating under 'Operation Enduring Peace' have apprehended Halima Ibrahim, a 30-year-old woman suspected of being a gunrunner. The arrest occurred in the Bassa Local Government Area following an intelligence-led raid on Kisayi and Dogon Daji settlements, which was prompted by the abduction of Dr. Abraham Owoicho on August 19, 2026. Ibrahim was caught attempting to escape with two AK-47 rifle magazines.

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In Plateau State, troops of Operation Enduring Peace, in collaboration with vigilantes and local hunters, conducted an intelligence-led raid on Kisayi and Dogon Daji settlements in Bassa Local Government Area. The operation followed the abduction of Dr Abraham Owoicho on 19 August 2026.

During a search of Ibrahim's residence in Kisayi B Village, the troops discovered and recovered one AK-47 rifle, a locally fabricated revolver, a military jungle hat, and three mobile phones. Preliminary investigations suggest that the AK-47 rifle found in her possession was allegedly owned by her husband, identified as Mr. Ibrahim. The operation, conducted in collaboration with vigilantes and local hunters, underscores the ongoing efforts to combat criminal activities in the region.

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During the operation, some occupants fled into the surrounding bush on sighting the troops. However, a 30-year-old woman, identified as Halima Ibrahim, was apprehended while attempting to flee with two AK-47 rifle magazines.

In a separate operation in Edo State, troops successfully rescued a 35-year-old victim, Mohammed Oboarekpe, from suspected kidnappers. The rescue took place along the Afawosa–Iyora Road in the Etsako West Local Government Area. Troops, working with the Edo State Security Corps, laid an ambush and engaged the suspected criminals as they moved with their captive. The confrontation forced the kidnappers to abandon Oboarekpe, who reported being abducted from his residence in South Ibie on August 20, 2026.

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Preliminary investigation indicated that the AK-47 rifle allegedly belonged to her husband, identified as Mr Ibrahim.

The Nigerian Army reiterated its commitment to dismantling criminal networks involved in kidnapping and arms trafficking. They urged the public to remain vigilant and cooperate with security forces in intelligence-driven operations aimed at eradicating violent crimes across the country.

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In a separate operation in Edo State, troops in conjunction with the Edo State Security Corps laid an ambush at Powerline Uzairue, along the Afawosa–Iyora Road in Etsako West Local Government Area.