Troops of the Nigerian Army have intercepted suspected terrorist logistics couriers and recovered a large quantity of ammunition in Kogi State, in what security officials describe as a major breakthrough in ongoing efforts to curb insecurity in the region.
The operation was carried out by soldiers of the 12 Brigade of the Nigerian Army along key routes in Lokoja Local Government Area. According to a statement released on Monday by Lieutenant Hassan Abdullahi, Acting Assistant Director of Army Public Relations for the Brigade, the success followed credible intelligence on the movement of individuals suspected to be supporting terrorist activities.
The latest arrests came shortly after troops had earlier apprehended a high-profile ammunition courier, Mathew Elisha, also known as Nasara, who had been on the watch list of security agencies. Building on that earlier success, soldiers intensified surveillance and patrols across major roads believed to be used for illegal arms movement.
Lieutenant Abdullahi explained that troops stationed along the Jamata–Owara road intercepted a suspect riding a motorcycle that had been specially modified. The motorcycle reportedly had a hidden compartment designed to secretly transport ammunition without raising suspicion. The discovery pointed to the growing level of sophistication among criminal networks involved in supplying weapons to armed groups.
In a related operation on the same day, troops deployed at Response Area Oshokoshoko mounted a snap checkpoint along the Obajana–Kabba road. During the exercise, they stopped a Toyota bus travelling from Makurdi in Benue State to Obajana in Kogi State.
A careful search of the vehicle led to the arrest of two men identified as Mallam Zubairu Abubakar and Adamu Abubakar Abdullahi. The suspects are believed to be logistics couriers working for terrorist elements.
Further inspection of the bus uncovered a sack hidden behind the driver’s seat. Inside the sack, troops found 314 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, commonly used in assault rifles, along with three magazines for AK-47 rifles. The concealment method suggested deliberate attempts to evade detection at security checkpoints.
In addition to the ammunition, other items recovered from the suspects included two mobile phones, a driver’s licence, a National Identification Number slip, and an identity card. These items are expected to assist investigators in tracking possible links to wider networks involved in arms trafficking and terrorism.
The Nigerian Army confirmed that the suspects and all recovered items have been handed over to the 12 Military Intelligence Brigade for further investigation. Authorities say the next step will involve gathering more information from the suspects to uncover their sponsors, routes, and possible connections to armed groups operating within and beyond Kogi State.
The Federal Government has repeatedly highlighted the importance of intelligence-led operations in tackling insecurity. This latest success highlights the role of timely information and coordinated action among security agencies.
Residents of Lokoja and surrounding communities have expressed relief at the arrests, noting that improved security presence has started to limit the activities of criminal elements. However, many also called for sustained operations to ensure that such networks are completely dismantled.
In recent months, security forces across Nigeria have stepped up efforts to disrupt the supply chains of terrorist and bandit groups. By targeting logistics couriers and intercepting weapons before they reach their destinations, authorities aim to weaken the operational capacity of these groups.
Military officials say the public also has a role to play by providing useful information to security agencies. They urged citizens to remain vigilant and report any suspicious movement or activity in their communities.
The Nigerian Army reassured the public of its commitment to safeguarding lives and property. Lieutenant Abdullahi noted that troops will continue to maintain a strong presence on major roads and carry out regular patrols to deter criminal activities.
As investigations continue, attention will focus on identifying the broader network behind the arrested suspects. Authorities believe that cutting off the flow of arms is key to restoring peace and stability not only in Kogi State but across the country.
The latest operation serves as a reminder of the ongoing security challenges Nigeria faces, as well as the efforts being made by the military and other agencies to address them. For now, the interception of these suspected couriers marks another step forward in the fight against terrorism and illegal arms trafficking.