Nigerian troops have intercepted a large consignment of weapons allegedly being transported from the Niger Republic to armed bandits operating in north-western Nigeria.
The operation, carried out by troops of Operation FANSAN YANMA, led to the recovery of 21 AK-47 rifles, four PKT machine guns and 825 magazines.
The interception reportedly took place on Tuesday, November 10, at Dawakawa in Goronyo Local Government Area of Sokoto State.
According to reports, the suspected smugglers allegedly used camels to transport the weapons through remote routes along the Nigeria-Niger border in an attempt to avoid security surveillance.
The recovered weapons were suspected to have been intended for armed groups operating across the North-West region.
The incident highlights the methods allegedly employed by criminal networks to move illegal weapons through difficult terrain and poorly monitored border communities.
Several border areas in Sokoto, Katsina, Zamfara and Kebbi states have been identified as vulnerable routes for arms trafficking and the movement of armed groups.
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These locations include Illela, Sabon Birni, Isa, Gudu and Tangaza in Sokoto; Jibia, Kaita and Mai’Adua in Katsina; Zurmi and Shinkafi in Zamfara; as well as Kamba and Arewa Dandi in Kebbi State.
Security concerns have continued to grow over the circulation of illegal firearms and the activities of armed groups across north-western Nigeria.
The latest interception could provide security agencies with important leads to identify those behind the alleged weapons trafficking operation, including the suppliers, transporters and intended recipients.
The operation also underscores the need for stronger border monitoring and intelligence gathering to prevent illegal arms from reaching criminal groups.
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