Troops of Operation ENDURING PEACE have intercepted a large cache of ammunition and suspected explosive components along the Kaduna–Jos highway, dealing a major blow to terrorist logistics networks.
In a statement issued by the Media Information Officer, Captain Chinonso Polycarp Oteh, the operation was carried out around 11:45 a.m. on Thursday, April 16, 2026, near Boys Science Secondary School on the Manchok–Jos road in Kaduna State.
According to the statement, troops stationed in Manchok, reinforced by a Special Forces Tactical Team, conducted a targeted stop-and-search operation on a navy-blue Opel Wagon commercial vehicle with seven occupants. The vehicle, bearing registration number NSR 154 TA Kano, was intercepted based on credible intelligence.
A thorough search of the vehicle led to the discovery of a significant cache of ammunition concealed within it. Recovered items included 569 rounds of 12.7mm anti-aircraft ammunition, several high-velocity warheads, and 189 empty shells of 7.62mm special ammunition.
Troops also recovered multiple disused GSM handsets, which security experts say are commonly used as components in the construction of remotely detonated Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs).
During preliminary interrogation, the driver, identified as Khalifa Bawa, reportedly claimed the items were part of a waybill consignment handed to him by an unidentified individual. He, however, failed to provide details of the sender or intended recipient.
All seven occupants of the vehicle have been taken into custody alongside the recovered items and vehicle. Security forces say investigations are ongoing to determine the origin of the weapons and dismantle the network behind the attempted movement of the materials.
The military reaffirmed its commitment to intensifying operations aimed at disrupting terrorist supply chains and ensuring the safety of citizens across the region.
