The Nigerian Army has arrested a soldier previously declared wanted over allegations of supplying military accoutrements to terrorists and other criminal groups.
The suspect, identified as Private Mohammed Yusuf of the Nigerian Army Ordnance Corps, was apprehended by troops of the 7 Provost Group under Operation HADIN KAI while allegedly attempting to flee to the Republic of Cameroon.
According to a statement issued on Sunday by the Acting Military Information Officer of Operation HADIN KAI, Captain Muhammed Goni, the arrest was made on July 25 at Jidari Bus Stop in Maiduguri following credible intelligence.
The Army disclosed that Yusuf had been declared wanted on July 23 after preliminary investigations linked him to the illegal sale and supply of military uniforms and other accoutrements to terrorists and criminal elements.
Investigators further revealed that the soldier had 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.
Captain Goni said the successful operation highlights the effectiveness of intelligence-led security operations and demonstrates the military’s commitment to holding personnel accountable for actions capable of undermining discipline, professionalism and national security.
He added that the suspect is currently in the custody of the 7 Provost Group, where further investigations are ongoing to determine the full extent of his alleged activities and identify any accomplices.
The Army reiterated that there would be no safe haven for individuals involved in supporting terrorism or any form of criminality, regardless of their status or position.
It also reaffirmed its resolve to uphold the highest standards of integrity and professionalism in the ongoing counter-insurgency campaign.
The military appealed to members of the public to continue supporting security agencies with timely and credible information, stressing that public cooperation remains vital to restoring lasting peace and security in the North-East.
The arrest comes days after the Nigerian Army Ordnance Corps officially declared Private Yusuf wanted over allegations of illegally supplying military uniforms to terrorists and other criminal elements, while promising that anyone found culpable would face disciplinary action in accordance with military laws.
