Troops Intercept Large Cache of Ammunition, Explosive Components on Kaduna–Jos Highway
In a major boost to ongoing internal security operations, troops of Operation ENDURING PEACE have intercepted a significant cache of ammunition and suspected explosive components along the Kaduna–Jos highway, dealing a blow to the logistics network of terrorist elements operating within the Joint Operations Area.
The troops, deployed at Manchok and reinforced by a Special Forces Tactical Team, made the interception during a precision stop-and-search operation in Kaduna State.
According to a statement issued by Captain Chinonso Polycarp Oteh, Media Information Officer of the Joint Task Force, the operation occurred at about 11:45 a.m. on Thursday, April 16, 2026, near the Boys Science Secondary School along the Manchok–Jos road.
A navy-blue Opel Wagon commercial vehicle with registration number NSR 154 TA (Kano), conveying seven passengers, was flagged down for routine checks. A thorough search of the vehicle led to the discovery of a concealed cache of ammunition.
Items recovered include 569 rounds of 12.7mm anti-aircraft ammunition, several high-velocity warheads, and 189 empty shells of 7.62mm special ammunition.
Further inspection also uncovered a number of disused Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM) handsets, which security experts have identified as commonly used components in the construction of remotely detonated Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs).
During preliminary interrogation, the driver, identified as Khalifa Bawa, denied ownership of the items, describing them as a “waybill” consignment.
He claimed the materials were handed to him by an unidentified individual and stated that he had no contact details or information regarding either the sender or intended recipient.
All occupants of the vehicle, including the driver, have been taken into custody alongside the seized vehicle and recovered items for further forensic examination and detailed investigation.
Security agencies have commenced efforts to trace the origin of the consignment and dismantle the broader network behind the attempted movement of the war materiel across state lines.
