RismadarVoice Reporters, April 17, 2026
Troops under Operation ENDURING PEACE have intercepted a large cache of ammunition and suspected improvised explosive device (IED) materials along the Kaduna–Jos highway, in what security officials describe as a major disruption of terrorist logistics in the region.
The operation was carried out around 11:45 a.m. on Thursday near Boys Science Secondary School, along the Manchok–Jos road in Kaduna State. Soldiers stationed in Manchok, supported by a Special Forces tactical team, stopped a navy-blue Opel Wagon commercial vehicle conveying seven passengers.
A thorough search of the vehicle uncovered a significant quantity of concealed ammunition and related materials. Among the items recovered were 569 rounds of 12.7mm anti-aircraft ammunition, several high-velocity warheads, and 189 empty shells of 7.62mm special ammunition.
Security sources also disclosed that a number of disused mobile phones were found in the vehicle. Experts say such devices are commonly repurposed as triggering mechanisms in the construction of remotely detonated IEDs.
During preliminary questioning, the driver, identified as Khalifa Bawa, reportedly denied ownership of the items, claiming they were part of a delivery consignment. He told investigators that the goods were handed to him by an unidentified individual and said he had no information about either the sender or the intended recipient.
All seven occupants of the vehicle have been taken into custody alongside the recovered materials and the vehicle itself. Military authorities say investigations are ongoing to determine the origin of the shipment and uncover any wider network linked to the movement of the weapons.
Operation ENDURING PEACE officials noted that the interception underscores ongoing efforts by security forces to disrupt the supply chains of armed groups and enhance safety along key transit routes.
The incident comes amid sustained military operations targeting criminal and terrorist elements across parts of northern Nigeria.
