Troops of the Nigerian Army’s 245 Battalion, operating under the Headquarters of 13 Brigade, have arrested a suspected gun runner and ammunition racketeer during an intelligence-led operation in Abi Local Government Area of Cross River State.
The arrest was carried out on Sunday, January 26, 2026, following credible intelligence received by troops deployed in the area, according to a statement issued by Major Yemi Sokoya, Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, Headquarters 13 Brigade Nigerian Army.
The suspect, identified as Mr. Ojo Friday, is an indigene of Ochon in Obubra Local Government Area of Cross River State, but is said to be residing at Abomege in Ebonyi State.
During the operation, troops recovered a cache of 245 pump-action cartridges allegedly intended for illegal distribution. The suspect and the recovered ammunition have been taken into military custody, while preliminary investigations are ongoing.
The Nigerian Army said the operation forms part of sustained efforts by 13 Brigade to curb the circulation of small arms and light weapons and to maintain peace and security within its area of responsibility.
Commenting on the development, the Commander of 13 Brigade Nigerian Army, Brigadier General P.O. Alimikhena, described the arrest as a reflection of the Army’s proactive security posture.
“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,” Alimikhena said.
He added that the Brigade would continue to collaborate with sister security agencies and host communities to prevent the proliferation 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,” he said.
The Brigade commander also commended the troops involved for their professionalism, vigilance and swift response, noting that the success underscores the Brigade’s high level of operational readiness.
He urged members of the public to continue to support the Nigerian Army by providing timely and credible information to enhance collective security efforts across the region.
