Security agencies have disrupted an alleged arms trafficking operation in Kogi State following the interception of a large cache of weapons and the arrest of three suspects linked to the illicit network.

The coordinated operation, carried out by a joint team of security personnel drawn from the military, intelligence services, and other agencies, was triggered by credible intelligence indicating the movement of illegal arms intended for criminal use within parts of the North-Central region.

According to security sources, the suspects were placed under surveillance for several days before operatives moved in to arrest them. The suspects were eventually tracked and apprehended in Sokoto State, while the weapons shipment was intercepted in Kogi State during a follow-up operation.

Officials said the targeted vehicle used in transporting the arms had been monitored as part of intelligence-led tracking efforts before it was intercepted.

Recovered items reportedly include assault rifles, pistols, ammunition, and other military-grade weapons believed to have been destined for criminal groups operating within and around the region.

Authorities described the operation as a significant success in ongoing efforts to dismantle illegal arms supply chains and curb the proliferation of weapons fueling insecurity.

The Kogi State Government commended the operatives involved, praising the collaboration between local security outfits, the Nigerian Army, and federal intelligence agencies.

It said the success of the operation highlights the effectiveness of improved inter-agency cooperation in addressing security challenges across the state.

Officials further confirmed that investigations are ongoing to identify additional members of the network and uncover wider links to arms trafficking activities.

Security agencies reiterated their commitment to sustained operations aimed at disrupting criminal networks and preventing the circulation of illegal weapons capable of destabilising communities across the country.

The latest interception adds to recent efforts by security forces to strengthen surveillance, improve intelligence sharing, and reduce the availability of illicit arms used in violent crimes.