Army Arrests Suspected Gun Runner, Recovers 245 Cartridges in Cross River

Troops of the Nigerian Army have arrested a suspected gun runner and recovered 245 pump-action cartridges during an intelligence-led operation in Cross River State.

The suspect, Ojo Friday, was apprehended on Sunday, January 26, 2026, by troops of the 245 Battalion, 13 Brigade, following credible intelligence on illegal arms movement in Abi Local Government Area. Friday, an indigene of Ochon community in Obubra LGA of Cross River, is a resident of Abomege in Ebonyi State.

In a statement on Tuesday, the Assistant Director of Army Public Relations for 13 Brigade, Major Yemi Sokoya, confirmed the arrest. “The suspect and the recovered items have been secured in custody, and preliminary investigations are ongoing,” Sokoya stated. The Army indicated the cartridges were intended for illicit distribution.

The Commander of 13 Brigade, Brigadier General Peter Olusegun Alimikhena, said the operation highlights the Army’s proactive, intelligence-driven approach to internal security.

“This operation demonstrates our commitment to disrupting illicit arms supply chains that threaten peace and stability,” Alimikhena stated. He added that the Brigade will continue to collaborate with other security agencies and communities to curb the proliferation of small arms.

The Commander commended the troops for their professionalism and urged the public to support security efforts by providing timely information. The arrest is part of broader intensified operations by the Nigerian Army in Cross River State to combat arms trafficking and strengthen security.