Troops Intercept Explosives, Arrest Seven Suspects on Kaduna–Jos Highway

Troops of Operation ENDURING PEACE have intercepted a large consignment of ammunition and explosive components along the Kaduna–Jos highway, leading to the arrest of multiple suspects.

The operation was carried out around 11:45 a.m. on April 16, 2026, near Manchok, close to a secondary school, when soldiers stopped a navy-blue Opel wagon conveying seven passengers during a routine check.

According to Captain Chinonso Polycarp Oteh, Media Information Officer of the Joint Task Force, a detailed search of the vehicle uncovered a significant cache of dangerous items. These included 569 rounds of anti-aircraft ammunition, warhead components, empty AK-47 shells, and materials believed to be used in constructing improvised explosive devices. Authorities also recovered several discarded mobile phones, often linked to remote detonation mechanisms.

Preliminary questioning revealed that the driver, identified as Khalifa Bawa, claimed the items were part of a delivery consignment. However, he reportedly failed to provide any credible details about the sender or intended recipient.

All occupants of the vehicle were taken into custody, while the recovered items and vehicle have been secured for further forensic examination.

Military authorities described the interception as a major disruption to the logistics network of criminal groups operating in the region. Investigations are ongoing to trace the origin of the weapons and uncover those behind the attempted movement of the materials across state lines.