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The Nigerian Army has confirmed the arrest of a soldier who had been declared wanted over allegations of supplying military equipment to terrorists and other criminal groups operating in Nigeria’s North East.
The suspect, identified as Private Mohammed Yusuf, was apprehended by troops of Operation HADIN KAI in Maiduguri, Borno State, while allegedly attempting to escape across the border into the Republic of Cameroon. His arrest marks a significant breakthrough in the military’s ongoing efforts to dismantle criminal networks believed to be aiding insurgent activities in the region.
According to military authorities, Yusuf had been declared wanted on July 23, 2026, following intelligence linking him to the illegal supply of military accoutrements, including uniforms and other sensitive items, to terrorists and criminal elements. Investigators believe such materials may have enabled insurgents to disguise themselves as security personnel during attacks or evade detection.
A statement issued by the Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations for Operation HADIN KAI, Captain Reuben Kovangiya, revealed that troops from the 7 Provost Group arrested the suspect at approximately 6:30 p.m. on July 25 after receiving credible human intelligence about his movements.
Military officials said Yusuf was intercepted at Jidari Bus Stop in Maiduguri, where he was allegedly making arrangements to cross into neighboring Cameroon. Security personnel swiftly moved in and arrested him before he could leave Nigerian territory.
The suspect serves with the Nigerian Army Ordnance Corps, a unit responsible for handling military equipment and logistics. Reports indicate that he had previously been attached to the Nigerian Army Ordnance Kits Factory before absconding from his duty post earlier this year, prompting an internal investigation and a nationwide manhunt.
Military authorities emphasized that the arrest demonstrates the army’s commitment to rooting out internal collaborators who undermine national security. Officials stressed that personnel found engaging in criminal activities would face the full weight of military and civil laws regardless of rank or position.
The Nigerian Army has repeatedly warned that insider collaboration remains one of the major challenges in the fight against insurgency. Security experts note that access to genuine military uniforms, identity materials, and operational equipment can significantly enhance the ability of terrorist groups to carry out attacks, deceive civilians, or infiltrate secure locations.
Operation HADIN KAI has intensified intelligence-led operations across Borno and other parts of the North East in recent months, targeting not only armed insurgents but also individuals suspected of providing logistics, weapons, supplies, or financial support to terrorist organizations.
The military said the latest arrest forms part of broader efforts to dismantle these support networks and restore lasting peace to communities affected by years of insurgency.
Following his arrest, Private Mohammed Yusuf is expected to undergo further investigation before facing appropriate disciplinary and legal proceedings. Authorities have not yet disclosed whether additional suspects are being investigated in connection with the alleged supply chain.
The Nigerian Army urged members of the public to continue providing credible information that could assist security agencies in identifying individuals involved in activities that threaten national security. Officials assured citizens that all useful intelligence would be treated confidentially and acted upon promptly.
The arrest comes as security forces continue sustained operations across the North East aimed at weakening terrorist groups, disrupting their logistics, and preventing collaborators from aiding insurgent activities. Military commanders maintain that eliminating internal threats remains essential to achieving long-term stability and security in the region.
