The Kogi State Government says it has intercepted a large cache of arms and ammunition allegedly meant for criminal groups, describing the development as a significant breakthrough in ongoing efforts to enhance security across the state.
Items recovered during the operation included two AK-47 rifles, several AK-47 magazines, 67 rounds of 7.62mm ammunition, two pistols, 12 rounds of pistol ammunition, and military uniforms suspected to be intended for criminal use.
According to the government, the operation was carried out through a coordinated effort involving local security operatives under the state’s security architecture, the Hybrid Forces operating under the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), the Department of State Services (DSS), and the 12 Brigade of the Nigerian Army.
Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Fanwo, said in a statement on Monday that the operation was triggered by credible intelligence on the movement of weapons intended for criminal elements operating within and around Kogi State.
He noted that the suspects were linked to the movement of arms using a Golf 2 vehicle, which was placed under surveillance as part of a coordinated interstate tracking operation.
Fanwo explained that security agencies worked across state boundaries in collaboration with the Sokoto State Government, leading to the arrest of three suspects after more than two weeks of covert surveillance.
Preliminary investigations reportedly provided valuable intelligence, while efforts are ongoing to track down other members of the arms trafficking network.
The statement added that intelligence suggested the weapons were meant to replenish criminal groups weakened after recent security operations, including the neutralisation of a suspected bandit leader during a failed kidnap attempt in June 2026.
The government said security agencies had intensified surveillance and intelligence gathering to prevent reprisal attacks and stop criminal groups from regrouping.
Commending the security agencies involved, the state government praised their coordination and professionalism, while also appreciating the support of the Sokoto State Government and other stakeholders.
It further acknowledged the contributions of the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in strengthening national security efforts.
The government assured residents that there is no cause for alarm, adding that security has been reinforced across strategic locations in the state.
It also urged citizens to remain vigilant and continue sharing credible information with security agencies as efforts continue to combat terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, and other crimes.
