Nigerian Troops Capture Notorious Gun Runner in Kaduna, Seize Illegally Refined AGO

Nigerian Army troops have apprehended a notorious gun runner, Mallam Hashimu Ahmad, who was en route to deliver high-caliber weapons to terrorists.

In a separate operation, they also intercepted a truck carrying illegally refined Automated Gas Oil (AGO) and rescued kidnapped victims in Kaduna State.

According to the Army, the arrest of Ahmad occurred at Saminaka in Lere Local Government Area, where he was intercepted while transporting sophisticated weaponry.

“The suspect, who has been on the wanted list of security agencies for supplying arms and ammunition to terrorists, was captured while on transit to deliver advanced weaponry,” the Army reported.

The seized arsenal included a General Purpose Machine Gun (GPMG), a Rocket Propelled Grenade (RPG) Launcher, one RPG Bomb, 1,069 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, and one belt of 7.62mm NATO ammunition. The weapons, along with the vehicle used for their transport, have been fully recovered.

In another operation, troops in Sokoto State successfully rescued hostages who had been abducted and taken into the forest. “Responding to a distress call, the troops swiftly moved to the location, engaged the kidnappers in a gun duel, and rescued the hostages,” the Army said. The freed individuals have been reunited with their families.

In Delta State, troops intercepted a tanker truck loaded with 15,000 liters of substance suspected to be illegally refined AGO at Ozoro in Isoko North Local Government Area.

“Acting on credible intelligence, the troops have taken the two suspects involved in conveying the illegal product into custody for preliminary investigation, pending handover to the appropriate prosecuting agency,” the statement added.

The Nigerian Army continues to intensify its operations against terrorism, insurgency, banditry, and other criminal activities. The Army urges the public to support their efforts by providing actionable information to enhance operations and ensure a safer society.