Troops of Operation Enduring Peace have foiled an attempt to transport illicit arms through Zak Village in Wase Local Government Area of Plateau State, recovering two AK-47 rifles and other items.

The operation was conducted on Saturday during a stop-and-search exercise when troops intercepted a green Volkswagen Golf vehicle for a routine search.

The Nigerian Army said in a statement on Sunday that a search of the vehicle uncovered a specially fabricated concealed compartment in the dashboard.

It said the driver abandoned the vehicle and fled into a nearby bush after troops directed him to open the compartment.

According to the Army, troops pursued and apprehended the suspect, who attempted to disarm one of the soldiers while being restrained.

The suspect was subsequently neutralised by the troops.

A further search of the concealed compartment led to the recovery of two AK-47 rifles, one magazine, two wooden rifle butts, nine magazine pouches, two camel bags, six jungle hats, one mobile phone and one ATM card.

The Army said the recovery demonstrated the effectiveness of sustained security measures aimed at disrupting the movement and proliferation of illicit arms.

It added that troops, in collaboration with other security agencies, would continue intelligence-driven operations to dismantle networks involved in arms trafficking and other criminal activities.

The Army urged members of the public to remain vigilant and provide credible information on suspicious movements and activities to security agencies.