NEWS: Kano airport officials hold Russian plane laden with arms feared belonging to Boko Haram

SECURITY officials at the Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport have seized a Russian plane that was enroute to the Chadian capital Ndjamena laden with arms and ammunition which are feared to have been ordered by Boko Haram.
 
Apparently, the Russian Antonov plane, with six crew members, was loaded with two helicopters parts and other sophisticated weapons. One security source said investigations have commenced into the source of the cargo and content, adding that the arms have been placed under protective custody pending the conclusion of the probe.
 

He added: "The military has already launched an investigation into how the aircraft found its way to Kano, the origin of the weapons, the destination and other important details surrounding the shipment."
 
Among the weapons discovered in aircraft were two sport utility vehicles and an array of AK 47 assault rifles but the crew did not make a full disclosure of the cargo. Apparently, the plane developed a technical problem and when it landed for repairs, security operatives suspected it had illegal items on board.
 
Our source hinted that when a thorough search was effected, the weapons were discovered and the crew members were taken into custody for interrogation. Crew members were said to have told the security operatives that the plane was on its way to Ndjamena, capital of the Republic of Chad but that it had to have a stopover in Nigeria to refuel.
 
Security agents have been asked to conduct a thorough investigation to ascertain whether the plane was heading to Chad or if the weapons were meant to equip insurgents. It has long been believed that Boko Haram is being supplied via neighbouring countries like Chad and then smuggle their arms across the border.