The Nigerian Army, through a joint operation by the Joint Task Force Operation ENDURING PEACE (JTF OPEP) and Sector 1 Operation FANSAN YAMMA (OPFY), has successfully apprehended two notorious gunrunners and recovered a significant cache of ammunition in Kaduna State. The operation, executed on Wednesday, October 8, 2025, stemmed from actionable intelligence provided by an intelligence agency located in Plateau State.

The suspects, identified as 40-year-old Mr. Abdullahi Balarabe and his 18-year-old wife, Shafaatu Abdullahi, were intercepted at a snap checkpoint established by the joint troops on the outskirts of Saminaka in the Lere Local Government Area of Kaduna State. This successful interdiction led to the recovery of precisely 1,207 rounds of 7.62 mm (Special) ammunition, which is strongly believed to have been intended for various armed groups actively operating within Nigeria's North West region.

Major Samson Nantip Zhakom, the Media Information Officer for JTF Operation ENDURING PEACE, officially announced the details of the arrest in a statement released on Tuesday, October 14, 2025. The statement underscored the coordinated efforts to enhance security across the Joint Operations Area, highlighting the proactive approach taken by the military forces.

Following their apprehension, Mr. and Mrs. Abdullahi, along with the seized ammunition, have been taken into custody. They are currently undergoing further rigorous investigation and follow-up actions. These steps are crucial for the military and intelligence agencies to effectively dismantle the broader and intricate gunrunning network suspected of operating in the region.

Major General Folusho Oyinlola, who serves as both the General Officer Commanding 3 Division and Commander JTF OPEP, has lauded the troops for their exceptional bravery, unwavering vigilance, and proactive execution of their duties. Major General Oyinlola emphasized that this successful operation vividly illustrates the critical importance of robust inter-agency cooperation as a fundamental strategy in effectively combating and neutralizing criminal activities across the nation. He further reiterated JTF OPEP's unwavering commitment to the residents of Plateau State, assuring them of the force's resolute dedication to restoring lasting peace and security. "We will not relent in our efforts to eradicate the activities of terrorists and criminal elements, thereby fostering a secure environment where peace and prosperity can thrive," Major General Oyinlola affirmed.