Troops of the 245 Battalion, operating under the Headquarters of the 13 Brigade Nigerian Army, have arrested a suspected gun runner in Abi Local Government Area of Cross River State during an intelligence-led operation aimed at curbing the illegal circulation of small arms and ammunition.
The operation, which took place on Sunday, January 26, 2026, followed actionable intelligence received by troops deployed in the area. The suspect, identified as Mr. Ojo Friday, is an indigene of Ochon in Obubra Local Government Area of Cross River State and a resident of Abomege in Ebonyi State.
During a search conducted at the point of arrest, the troops recovered 245 pump-action cartridges believed to have been prepared for illegal distribution. The suspect and the seized ammunition are currently in military custody, while preliminary investigations are ongoing to trace the source and possible network behind the arms supply.
Commenting on the development, the Commander of 13 Brigade Nigerian Army, Brigadier General P.O. Alimikhena, said the operation underscores the Brigade’s commitment to intelligence-driven security operations and the disruption of illicit arms trafficking.
“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. We will continue to work closely with sister security agencies and host communities to prevent the proliferation of small arms and light weapons and ensure a secure environment for socio-economic activities,” he said.
Brigadier General Alimikhena commended the troops for their professionalism, vigilance, and swift response, describing the success as a reflection of the Brigade’s high operational readiness.
He also urged members of the public to support the Nigerian Army by providing timely and credible information that can aid security agencies in safeguarding lives and property across Cross River State and neighbouring regions.
The arrest forms part of ongoing efforts by the Nigerian Army to strengthen internal security and maintain peace in areas under its operational responsibility.
