Troops of Operation Hadin Kai have arrested a soldier declared wanted by the Nigerian Army over his alleged role in supplying military uniforms and accoutrements to terrorist groups operating in the North-East.
The suspect was reportedly intercepted while attempting to flee to Cameroon.
Sources in Maiduguri identified the soldier as Private Mohammed Yusuf (23NA/84/1939) of the Nigerian Army Ordnance Training Facility (NAOTF), Lagos. He was apprehended around 6:30 p.m. on July 25 by troops of the 7 Provost Group led by the acting commander.
According to preliminary findings, the soldier had earlier absconded from his unit before being declared wanted. He allegedly travelled to Maiduguri on July 7, where he went into hiding.
Investigations further revealed that he was allegedly harboured at Gomari Costain in Jere Local Government Area of Borno State by another soldier, Private Baba Kamal Sale (25NA/89/12687) of the Corps of Intelligence, Dikwa.
Acting on credible intelligence, troops of the 7 Provost Group placed the suspect under close surveillance before arresting him at Jidari Bus Stop while he was reportedly attempting to escape across the border.
He is currently in custody and undergoing further investigation over the alleged supply of military gear to terrorist elements, as well as possible links to other collaborators.
Sources described the arrest as a major breakthrough in efforts to dismantle insider networks aiding insurgent groups.
Investigations are ongoing to determine the full extent of the suspect’s activities and identify any accomplices.
