Troops of the Nigerian Army under the operational control of Headquarters 13 Brigade have arrested a suspected gun runner in Abi Local Government Area of Cross River State during an intelligence-led operation.
According to a statement issued by the Brigade, the arrest was carried out by troops of 245 Battalion following credible intelligence on the activities of arms traffickers within the area.
The statement announcing this development was signed by Yemi Sokoya, Major, Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, Headquarters 13 Brigade Nigerian Army, on Tuesday.
“Troops of 245 Battalion, under the operational control of Headquarters 13 Brigade Nigerian Army, arrested a suspected gun runner and ammunition racketeer during an intelligence-led operation in Abi Local Government Area of Cross River State,” the statement said.
The operation, the military disclosed, took place on Sunday, 26 January 2026, after troops acting on intelligence reports moved to intercept the suspect.
“The arrest took place on Sunday, 26 January 2026, following credible intelligence received by troops deployed in the area. The suspect, identified as Mr. Ojo Friday, is an indigene of Ochon, Obubra Local Government Area of Cross River State but resides at Abomege in Ebonyi State,” the statement added.
During the operation, the troops were said to have recovered a significant cache of ammunition believed to be intended for illegal circulation.
“During the operation, troops successfully recovered 245 Pump Action Cartridges, which were intended for illicit distribution,” the statement said.
The Nigerian Army noted that the suspect and the recovered ammunition are currently in military custody, while investigations into the source and intended destination of the arms are ongoing.
“The suspect and the recovered items have been secured in own custody, and preliminary investigations is ongoing. The Brigade remains committed to proactive measures that prevent the circulation of small arms and maintain peace and security within its area of responsibility,” the statement said.
Commenting on the arrest, the Commander of 13 Brigade Nigerian Army, Brigadier General PO Alimikhena, described the operation as a reflection of the Brigade’s intelligence-driven approach to internal security operations.
“This operation demonstrates our proactive, intelligence-driven approach to internal security and our commitment to disrupting illicit arms supply chains that threaten peace and stability,” he said.
The Brigade Commander further reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s resolve to collaborate with other security agencies and local communities to curb the spread of illegal weapons.
“The Nigerian Army, under 13 Brigade, will continue to work closely with sister security agencies and host communities to prevent the proliferation of small arms and light weapons. We remain committed to maintaining a secure environment for socio-economic activities within our area of responsibility,” Brigadier General Alimikhena stated.
He also praised the troops involved in the operation for their conduct and professionalism, noting that their swift response contributed to the successful outcome.
“Brigadier General Alimikhena also commended the troops for their professionalism, vigilance, and swift response, emphasizing that such successes reflect the high operational readiness of the Brigade,” the statement said.
The Commander urged members of the public to continue cooperating with the Nigerian Army by providing credible information that could help improve security across the state.
“He urged members of the public to continue supporting the Nigerian Army by providing timely and credible information to enhance collective security,” the statement added.
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