Army recovers AK-47 rifles, ammunition in Plateau operation

Nigerian Army troops have successfully recovered AK-47 rifles, locally fabricated firearms, and ammunition during a targeted operation in Mangu Local Government Area of Plateau State. The operation, conducted under Sector 8 of Operation ENDURING PEACE as part of Operation HARD KNOCK, was initiated based on credible intelligence regarding a planned attack on Mwar Community in Chakfem Kingdom.

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Consequently, troops were immediately deployed to conduct a fighting patrol and raid suspected locations, with the dual objective of recovering the missing cattle and apprehending those responsible.

Intelligence received on August 19, 2026, indicated an imminent threat from suspected bandit militias. Preliminary findings suggest this planned attack might be connected to the alleged rustling of cattle by youths from the community. In response, troops were immediately deployed to conduct a fighting patrol and raid suspected locations with the objective of recovering the missing cattle and apprehending those responsible.

Despite deploying drones and surveillance capabilities to search surrounding settlements and bush locations for the missing cattle, no traces of the animals were found. However, intelligence efforts identified Pantong Stanley and other youths from the community as suspected perpetrators. A subsequent snap raid on Pantong Stanley's residence, though he was not present, led to the significant recovery of weapons.

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Troops deployed drones and other surveillance capabilities to search surrounding settlements and bush locations for the missing cattle, but no traces of the animals were found after a systematic search.

The recovered items include 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. The Nigerian Army stated that troops, in collaboration with the police and other security agencies, are continuing offensive operations and targeted searches in areas linked to other identified suspects.

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Acting on the intelligence, troops conducted a snap raid on the residence of Pantong Stanley, who was not present at the time of the operation.

These ongoing operations aim to recover the missing cattle, locate additional arms caches, and apprehend all individuals involved. The Army has urged the public to remain vigilant and provide credible information about suspicious activities. They reaffirmed their commitment to safeguarding lives and property, preventing the proliferation of illegal arms, and maintaining peace and security in Plateau State and the wider North Central region.

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The operation, however, led to the recovery of 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.