MNJTF Troops burst illegal arms syndicate between Nigeria and Niger
By Lawrence Audu
Troops of Sector 4 Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF) stationed in Kabalewa, Niger Republic, have intercepted a cache of arms in a significant operation to curb illegal arms smuggling between Niger and Nigeria. The operation involved the successful apprehension of a Toyota V8 Sequoia vehicle that was traveling southwest from Nigeria, carrying a cache of illicit weapons.
The interception, led by the vigilant MNJTF soldiers, revealed a hidden compartment ingeniously built into the vehicle’s double bottom. Inside this concealed compartment, the troops discovered a stash of arms, including 4 x Rocket Propelled Guns 7 and an AK-47 rifle along with a magazine. The vehicle was being operated by three individuals who were identified as gunrunners.
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In a statement, Chief of Military Public Information for the MNJTF Lieutenant Colonel Abubakar Abdullahi said in addition to the arms discovery, the troops confiscated further incriminating evidence from the intercepted vehicle. This evidence included 2x Nigerian license plates, 4 x bank ATM cards, 4x mobile phones, and a customs pass from the Maine Soroa border, dated 9/03/2024. Preliminary analysis of the seized items indicates a connection to the notorious Boko Haram terrorist group, highlighting the severity of the situation.
The successful interception and seizure of these illegal arms and related evidence underscore the dedication of the MNJTF in upholding regional security and combating the illicit arms trade. This operation serves as a testament to the commitment of the MNJTF in maintaining peace and stability in the region.
