Troops Nab Suspected Gunrunner in Plateau, Rescue Kidnapped Victim in Edo

Troops of the Nigerian Army have conducted successful operations in Plateau and Edo States, leading to the arrest of a suspected gunrunner and the rescue of a kidnapped victim.

In Plateau State, forces operating under Operation Endurance Peace, alongside vigilantes and local hunters, raided settlements in Bassa Local Government Area. This operation followed the abduction of Dr. Abraham Owoicho on August 19, 2026.

During the raid, Halima Ibrahim, a 30-year-old woman, was apprehended while attempting to flee. A search of her residence in Kisayi B Village uncovered an AK-47 rifle, a locally fabricated revolver, a military jungle hat, and three mobile phones. Preliminary investigations suggest the rifle belonged to her husband, Ibrahim.

In Edo State, troops, in conjunction with the Edo State Security Corps, set up an ambush along the Afawosa–Iyora Road. They intercepted suspected kidnappers with their victim, forcing the criminals to abandon their captive. The rescued individual, identified as Mohammed Oboarekpe, 35, stated he was abducted from his residence on August 20, 2026.

The Nigerian Army reiterated its commitment to combating criminal activities, including kidnapping and arms trafficking. They encouraged the public to remain vigilant and share timely, credible information to aid security efforts across the country.

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The Nigerian Army remains committed to dismantling criminal networks involved in kidnapping, arms trafficking and other violent crimes. Troops will continue to conduct intelligence-driven operations in collaboration with other security agencies and local security stakeholders to counter all forms of criminality and safeguard communities. Members of the public are encouraged to remain vigilant and provide timely and credible information to security agencies to support ongoing efforts to enhance security across the country.