The Nigerian Army has arrested a soldier for alleged arms trafficking while intensifying nationwide counter-crime operations.
Troops also rescued eight kidnap victims, seized weapons, and dismantled criminal networks across multiple states.
The Nigerian Army has confirmed the arrest of one of its soldiers over alleged involvement in arms trafficking, while also reporting the rescue of eight kidnap victims and the recovery of assorted weapons during nationwide operations.
A senior officer at Army Headquarters in Abuja, who shared details with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Monday, September 1, 2025, revealed that the soldier, Lance Corporal Saifullahi Garba (service number 14NA/72/15972), was apprehended in Marte Local Government Area of Borno State. He was found in possession of 711 rounds of 7.62mm ammunition.
According to initial investigations, Garba had allegedly diverted ammunition from clearance operations with the plan of selling them to insurgents. The officer noted that the soldier has been transferred to relevant authorities for further disciplinary measures.
In another development, troops on patrol in Bama reportedly intercepted a consignment of ammunition meant for terrorists, seizing 379 rounds of 7.62mm cartridges. Elsewhere, ambush operations in Borno and Yobe led to the recovery of two AK-47 rifles, 11 rounds of ammunition, and other materials. One insurgent was killed during the clashes.
The Army source further disclosed that in Nasarawa State, troops freed three kidnapped individuals, in addition to five others earlier rescued during separate missions. Similarly, troops under Operation Whirl Stroke in Taraba recovered 579 stolen cattle and two AK-47 rifles from armed herders linked to recent attacks.
In the South-South, operatives of Operation Delta Safe arrested 10 armed suspects in Rivers State who were disguised in OSPAC security uniforms. They also confiscated five pump-action rifles, locally fabricated guns, charms, mobile phones, and about ₦1.7 million in cash. A different raid in Ahoada East led to the killing of two notorious cult leaders.
“These operations reflect the military’s determination to cut off terrorists and criminals from their sources of strength, while also showing that the institution is ready to deal firmly with any act of betrayal from within,” the officer stressed.
