A Ukrainian plane loaded with weapons was on Tuesday night impounded by Air Force intelligence at the Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport in northern Nigeria's Kano State, according to local media reports on Thursday.

Four people, two pilots and two other foreign nationals, who were on board, were arrested, while some Nigerians who attempted to clear the weapons were also arrested.

A competent airport source, who confirmed the arrests, told journalists that the Air Force men, who impounded the plane, were on duty at the airport.

The plane, painted red and marked UR-CAK was impounded on the arrival terminal at the airport, based on intelligence report.

The impounded plane was seen parked at the airport with security operatives mounting surveillance while sources said investigations were on to know the mission and why such weapons were brought into Nigeria.

It was gathered that security chiefs at the airport were meeting to ensure that the pilot gave details of their mission in Nigeria.

Sources at the airport revealed that the plane was going to Malabo, Equatorial Guinea and that it only stopped in Kano to refuel.

Those who spoke on the appearance of the plane and its crew gave kudos to the officers at the airport, adding that the flying in of the weapons was a big security threat to Nigeria.

The airport workers said the apprehension of the Ukrainian cargo plane was a job well done by the Nigerian security men.

All efforts to speak with the airport commandant of the Nigerian Air Force were unsuccessful.

Emmanuel Ojukwu, the State Police Public Relations Officer, who confirmed the development, said the military was investigating the circumstances and the owners of the arms on the plane.

Source: Xinhua