Troops of the Nigerian Army have intercepted 11 suspected criminal elements conveying materials believed to be for the production of improvised explosive devices (IEDs) in Kuje Area Council of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
Security sources said the suspects, comprising 10 males and one female, were arrested at about 12:59 a.m. on April 27 by troops of the 176 Guards Battalion deployed at Kuchiyako.
The suspects were reportedly intercepted in a vehicle along the Kuchiyako–Tipper Garage road, allegedly loaded with materials suspected to be used in the manufacture of IEDs.
According to preliminary investigations, the suspects claimed they were heading to mining sites around Kabbin Mangoro in Kuje Area Council to collect mineral resources.
Items recovered from them include explosive charges and three-and-a-half bags of unidentified mineral substances, alongside other materials.
A senior officer of the Guards Brigade, who confirmed the operation, said the suspects are currently in military custody.
He added that investigations are ongoing to determine their intent and possible links to criminal or terrorist activities.
The officer assured that troops would sustain countermeasures to ensure the safety of residents in the FCT and surrounding areas.