Troops Arrest Wanted Soldier Over Alleged Supply Of Military Gear To Terrorists

Troops of Operation HADIN KAI have arrested a Nigerian Army soldier who was declared wanted over his alleged involvement in supplying military accoutrements to terrorists and other criminal elements.

The suspect, Private Mohammed Yusuf, with service number 23NA/84/1939, attached to the Nigerian Army Ordnance Kits Factory, Lagos, was apprehended on July 25 in Maiduguri, Borno State.

The Acting Military Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI, Capt. Mohammed Goni, disclosed this in a statement on Sunday.

According to the statement, Yusuf had been declared wanted by the Nigerian Army on July 23 over allegations of illegally supplying military items to terrorists.

He was arrested by troops of the 7 Provost Group at about 6:30 p.m. at Jidari Bus Stop in Maiduguri following credible intelligence, while allegedly attempting to flee to the Republic of Cameroon.

Preliminary investigations revealed that the soldier absconded from his unit on July 7 before relocating to Maiduguri, where he allegedly went into hiding in the Gomari Costain area of Jere Local Government Area with the assistance of an associate.

The military said the arrest highlights the effectiveness of intelligence-led operations and demonstrates the Nigerian Army’s resolve to hold personnel accountable for actions capable of undermining military discipline and national security.

“The suspect is currently in the custody of 7 Provost Group, where further investigation is ongoing to establish the full extent of his activities and identify other individuals who may have been involved,” the statement said.

Read Also: BBNaija S11: ‘If I’m Not Doing Well, Vote Me Out,’ Housemate 3 Martins Tells Viewers

Operation HADIN KAI reiterated its commitment to rooting out criminal elements and individuals aiding terrorism, regardless of their status.

“Operation HADIN KAI reiterates that there is no safe haven for individuals who support terrorism or any form of criminality, irrespective of their status. The military remains resolute in upholding professionalism, accountability and the highest standards of integrity in the conduct of ongoing counter-insurgency operations,” the statement added.

The military also urged members of the public to continue providing credible and timely information to security agencies, stressing that public cooperation remains crucial to ongoing efforts to restore peace and security in the North-East.