Troops of Operation HADIN KAI have arrested a Nigerian Army soldier declared wanted for allegedly supplying military accoutrements to terrorists and other criminal elements, dealing a major blow to criminal support networks in the North-East.
The suspect, 23NA/84/1939 Private Mohammed Yusuf of the Nigerian Army Ordnance Kits Factory, Lagos, was apprehended at about 6:30 p.m. on 25 July 2026 by troops of 7 Provost Group following credible human intelligence.
According to the military, the soldier—who was declared wanted by the Nigerian Army on 23 July 2026 over the same allegations—was arrested at Jidari Bus Stop in Maiduguri while allegedly attempting to escape to the Republic of Cameroon.
Preliminary investigations revealed that Private Yusuf absconded from his unit on 7 July 2026 before relocating to Maiduguri, where he reportedly went into hiding in the Gomari Costain area of Jere Local Government Area with the assistance of an associate.
The military said his arrest highlights the effectiveness of intelligence-led operations and reinforces the Nigerian Army’s resolve to hold personnel accountable for any actions that compromise military discipline, ethics and national security.
The suspect is currently in the custody of the 7 Provost Group, where investigations are ongoing to determine the full scope of his alleged activities and identify possible collaborators.
Operation HADIN KAI reiterated that there is no safe haven for anyone aiding terrorism or criminality, regardless of status, stressing its commitment to professionalism, accountability and integrity in the ongoing counter-insurgency campaign.
The military also urged members of the public to continue providing timely and credible intelligence, describing public cooperation as vital to restoring lasting peace and security across the North-East.
