Army Arrests Gun Runners, Recovers AK-103 Rifle in Zamfara

On August 24, 2023, troops from the Nigerian Army's 1 Brigade arrested three suspected gun runners in Zamfara State during a stop-and-search operation along the Kauran Namoda–Shinkafi Road. The operation, part of the Joint Task Force North West, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, led to the recovery of an AK-103-2 rifle, one magazine, and 30 rounds of 7.62mm Special ammunition.

The suspects, identified as 20-year-old Lukman Sulaiman, 18-year-old Nafiu Isa, and 60-year-old Adamu Lawali, were found in a Golf Wagon with registration number BMJ-143AA. The weapon and ammunition were concealed inside a bag of millet.

Preliminary investigations indicated that the suspects were transporting the firearm to Yar-Galadima in Maru Local Government Area. The younger suspects claimed that an Alhaji in Gusau, identified as their father, financed the purchase of the millet used for concealment.

The firearm was intended for delivery to Tijjani Goguwa of Yar-Galadima. All suspects, the recovered items, and the vehicle are in custody for further investigation and legal action.