Troops of Sector 1, Operation Enduring Peace in collaboration with Vigilante Group of Nigeria (VGN) members and local hunters, have arrested a suspected gunrunner and recovered an AK-47 rifle, magazines and other military-related items during a raid on settlements in Bassa Local Government Area of Plateau State.

The operation was conducted on August 21, 2026, following intelligence linking the area to the kidnapping of a medical doctor, identified as Dr Abraham Owoicho, who was abducted on August 19.

Security sources told Zagazola Makama that troops moved into Kisayi and Dogon Daji settlements after receiving actionable intelligence on the activities of suspected criminal elements operating around the communities.

The troops, supported by the local security volunteers and hunters, raided the settlements and conducted a search of identified locations.

Sources said that upon sighting the advancing security personnel, several male occupants of the area fled into the surrounding bush, leaving behind women and children.

However, a woman identified as Halima Ibrahim, 30, was apprehended while allegedly attempting to escape with two AK-47 rifle magazines.

Following her arrest, the troops cordoned off and searched her residence at Kisayi B Village.

The search led to the recovery of one AK-47 rifle which investigators are now tracing to determine its source and ownership.

During preliminary interrogation, the suspect reportedly disclosed that the rifle belonged to her husband, identified as Ibrahim.

Further searches of the residence also resulted in the recovery of one locally fabricated revolver pistol, one military jungle hat and three mobile phones.

The suspect and the recovered exhibits have been taken into military custody for further investigation.

Security sources said the investigation would focus on establishing the source of the firearms, the circumstances surrounding their possession and possible links between the suspects and criminal networks operating in the area.

The operation is part of ongoing efforts by security forces to disrupt the activities of kidnappers and illegal arms suppliers in Plateau State, particularly following recent incidents of abduction in parts of Bassa Local Government Area.

Authorities are expected to conduct further intelligence-driven operations in the affected communities as investigations continue. (Zagazola, but headline reworked)

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