Troops of the Nigerian Army have arrested a suspected gun runner and recovered 245 pump-action cartridges in Abi Local Government Area of Cross River State. The suspect, Ojo Friday, was apprehended on Sunday, January 26, 2026, during an intelligence-led operation by the 245 Battalion under the 13 Brigade.
According to a statement by the Assistant Director of Army Public Relations, Major Yemi Sokoya, the suspect is an indigene of Ochon community in Obubra LGA but resides in Abomege, Ebonyi State. The recovered cartridges were allegedly intended for illicit distribution within and beyond the region.
The suspect and the exhibits have been taken into custody, with preliminary investigations underway. Brigadier General Peter Olusegun Alimikhena, Commander of the 13 Brigade, commended the operation, stating it reflects the Army's proactive, intelligence-driven approach to internal security.
“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 reiterated the Army's commitment to collaborating with other security agencies and host communities to curb the proliferation of small arms and light weapons, ensuring a secure environment for socio-economic activities.
The arrest is part of intensified operations across Cross River State aimed at combating arms trafficking and strengthening security in the region.
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