Security operatives have intercepted a cache of arms and ammunition allegedly being transported to criminal groups planning to disrupt peace and security in Kogi State.
The interception was carried out through a coordinated operation involving local security operatives under the Kogi State security architecture, the Hybrid Forces operating under the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), and troops of the 12 Brigade of the Nigerian Army.
In a statement issued on Monday by the Kogi State Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Fanwo, the government said the operation followed credible intelligence on the movement of weapons intended for criminal elements operating within and around the state.
According to the statement, security agencies identified a Golf 2 vehicle suspected to be involved in the illegal transportation of the arms. The vehicle was tracked after intelligence reports revealed its movement across state boundaries.
The operation was conducted in collaboration with the Sokoto State Government and security agencies in the state, where three suspects were arrested after being placed under surveillance for more than two weeks.
The government said preliminary investigations had provided useful information, while efforts were ongoing to arrest other members of the suspected arms trafficking network.
Following further intelligence gathered during the operation, security operatives intercepted the weapons and later impounded the Golf 2 vehicle used in transporting them at Kabba, in Kabba-Bunu Local Government Area of Kogi State.
Items recovered from 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 have been intended for criminal operations.
The state government said intelligence reports suggested that the weapons were part of an attempt by criminal groups to replenish their arms stock after suffering major setbacks during recent security operations.
It linked the development to increased pressure on criminal elements following the reported killing of notorious bandit leader Kachalla Battijo on June 10, 2026, after an alleged failed attempt to abduct students of Government Secondary School, Iluke Bunu.
The government explained that it had anticipated possible retaliatory attacks and attempts by fleeing criminals to regroup, leading to increased intelligence gathering, wider surveillance operations, and stronger cooperation with security agencies across the country.
It added that available intelligence showed that some criminal elements hiding in forest locations within parts of the state had suffered significant losses and were making efforts to acquire more weapons to resist ongoing security operations.
The Kogi State Government described the successful interception as a result of proactive security measures and intelligence-driven operations aimed at preventing threats before they occur.
It commended security agencies involved in the operation, including local security teams, the Hybrid Forces under ONSA, the Department of State Services (DSS), and officers of the 12 Brigade of the Nigerian Army for their coordination and professionalism.
The government also appreciated President Bola Tinubu for strengthening security institutions and supporting efforts by state governments to protect lives and property.
It further acknowledged the cooperation of the Sokoto State Government, security agencies in Sokoto, and other stakeholders whose support contributed to the success of the operation.
Security Operatives Intercept Arms Shipment Destined for Criminal Elements in Kogi
