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A joint security operation in Kogi State has led to the interception of a large cache of arms and ammunition believed to have been destined for criminal groups attempting to destabilise the state.
The state government confirmed the development in a statement issued on Monday by the Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Fanwo.
According to the statement, the operation was carried out through coordinated efforts between local security operatives under Kogi’s security architecture, the Hybrid Forces under the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), and the 12 Brigade of the Nigerian Army, acting on credible intelligence.
Security agencies reportedly tracked the movement of suspects across state boundaries after intelligence identified a Golf 2 vehicle being used to transport weapons.
Three suspects were arrested in Sokoto State after being placed under surveillance for over two weeks, while further investigations are ongoing to apprehend other members of the arms trafficking network.
The operation later led to the interception of the weapons in Kabba, Kabba-Bunu Local Government Area, where the vehicle used in transporting the arms was also recovered. Items recovered include 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.
The government said intelligence indicated the weapons were meant to replenish depleted stockpiles of armed groups following recent security operations, including the reported neutralisation of a bandit leader, Kachalla Battijo, in June 2026.
Officials added that heightened surveillance and intelligence-sharing helped pre-empt possible retaliatory attacks and disrupted attempts by fleeing criminals to regroup.
Kogi State authorities said the success of the operation reflects the effectiveness of intelligence-led security strategies and inter-agency collaboration.
They commended all participating security agencies, including the DSS, Nigerian Army, and hybrid forces, as well as the Sokoto State Government for its cooperation during the operation.
The government also praised President Bola Tinubu for strengthening security structures to tackle crime and improve grassroots safety nationwide.
