Troops Intercept 569 Rounds of Ammunition, IED Components on Kaduna–Jos Road

Troops Intercept 569 Rounds of Ammunition, IED Components on Kaduna–Jos Road

Troops of Operation Enduring Peace have intercepted a large cache of ammunition and suspected improvised explosive device (IED) components along the Kaduna–Jos highway, in a major security breakthrough aimed at curbing violent attacks in the region.

The operation, carried out at about 11:45am on Thursday, took place near Boys Science Secondary School along the Manchok–Jos axis in Kaduna State. The troops, supported by a special forces tactical team, were conducting a routine stop-and-search when they flagged down a suspicious commercial vehicle.

According to the Nigerian Army, the vehicle—a navy-blue Opel wagon with registration number NSR 154 TA Kano—was conveying seven passengers at the time of interception.

A thorough search of the vehicle led to the discovery of concealed military-grade items, including 569 rounds of 12.7mm anti-aircraft ammunition and several high-velocity warheads. Troops also recovered 189 empty shells of 7.62mm special ammunition, raising further suspicion about the intended use of the materials.

In addition, security personnel found disused GSM handsets, which are believed to be components commonly adapted for remotely detonated IEDs, pointing to possible links with planned attacks or insurgent activity.

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The driver of the vehicle, identified as Khalifa Bawa, reportedly denied ownership of the recovered items, claiming that the consignment was a “waybill” handed over to him by an unidentified individual. He also stated that he had no knowledge of either the sender or the intended recipient.

All occupants of the vehicle have since been taken into custody for further interrogation, while the vehicle and recovered items remain in military custody as investigations continue.

Military authorities disclosed that efforts are ongoing to trace the origin of the shipment and dismantle the network behind it, noting that such interceptions are critical in preventing potential attacks and disrupting the supply chain of weapons to criminal groups.

The Kaduna–Jos corridor, linking Kaduna and Jos, has remained a strategic but vulnerable route due to recurring security threats, including banditry and insurgent activities.

Security analysts say the interception highlights the increasing use of civilian transport systems for moving illicit arms, as well as the evolving tactics of criminal elements deploying improvised explosive devices.

The Nigerian Army reaffirmed its commitment to intelligence-driven operations and sustained patrols to secure highways and protect lives, urging members of the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to security agencies.

Troops Intercept 569 Rounds of Ammunition, IED Components on Kaduna–Jos Road