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| File Photo illustrating Arms |
The Nigerian Army has uncovered a disturbing case of betrayal within its ranks following the arrest of one of its personnel for alleged arms trafficking. At the same time, troops intensified nationwide operations that rescued kidnapped victims, dismantled criminal networks, and recovered large caches of weapons from terrorists and armed groups.
Beyond the statistics, these operations carry human stories of pain, relief, and resilience — from kidnapped villagers reunited with their families, to rural farmers whose stolen cattle were returned, and communities in the Niger Delta freed from the grip of cult gangs.
Soldier Caught with 711 Rounds in Borno
A source at Army Headquarters in Abuja told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) that Lance Corporal Saifullahi Garba (14NA/72/15972) was arrested in Marte Local Government Area of Borno State with 711 rounds of 7.62mm ammunition.
Investigations revealed that Garba had allegedly been diverting ammunition recovered during clearance operations, intending to supply them to terrorists. He has been handed over for prosecution.
Security analysts say the case highlights the army’s willingness to expose internal sabotage. “This is a warning to anyone tempted by greed,” said a retired Brigadier-General (name withheld). “The army is under pressure, but discipline remains non-negotiable.
Breakthroughs in the Northeast
In Bama, Borno State, troops intercepted a terrorists’ logistics convoy and recovered 379 rounds of ammunition. Ambush missions in Borno and Yobe also led to the recovery of two AK-47 rifles and 11 rounds of ammunition, with one terrorist neutralised.
The arms were reportedly meant for fighters hiding along the Lake Chad Basin, an area where Boko Haram and ISWAP have regrouped in recent months.
Tears of Relief in the North-Central
In the North-Central region, troops rescued three kidnap victims in Nasarawa State, in addition to five earlier freed. Among them was Aisha Mohammed, a 28-year-old trader who spent six harrowing days in captivity.
“We thought we would never come out alive,” she recalled with tears streaming down her face. “The soldiers came in the night; at first, we thought it was the bandits. When they said, ‘We are here to free you,’ we just collapsed in relief.”
Troops also struck a blow against cattle-rustling gangs in Taraba State, recovering 579 rustled cattle and two AK-47 rifles. For rural farmers, this was more than a military victory — it was an economic lifeline.
“Those cows are our livelihood. Without them, we are finished,” said Bala Ibrahim, a herder in Wukari whose cattle were among the recovered. “The army has saved us from starting life all over again.”
South-South: Communities Reclaim Peace
In Rivers State, operatives of Operation Delta Safe arrested 10 armed suspects disguised in OSPAC uniforms. Seized items included five pump-action rifles, locally made guns, charms, mobile phones, and ₦1.7 million cash.
In a separate operation in Ahoada East, troops neutralised two notorious cult leaders who had terrorised local communities for years. Residents celebrated openly after the news spread.
“For months, we could not sleep peacefully. These boys would shoot at night, demand money, and kill anyone who resisted,” said Elder Chukwudi, a community leader. “The army has given us our freedom back.
A Dual Message: External Victory, Internal Cleansing
While military victories against terrorists and criminals grab headlines, the arrest of a soldier for arms trafficking raises uncomfortable questions about internal betrayal. Analysts argue that arms diversion has long fueled insecurity in Nigeria, making the crackdown both urgent and symbolic.
“The army is not only fighting terrorists, it is fighting corruption and collusion within its own ranks,” said defence analyst Dr. Hauwa Musa. “By exposing one of their own, they are sending a message that the institution will cleanse itself to remain credible.”
Rebuilding Trust
The week’s successes also brought hope to communities long battered by violence. For survivors like Aisha Mohammed in Nasarawa and farmers in Taraba, the army’s actions went beyond statistics — they were a matter of survival.
“These operations highlight the army’s determination to deny terrorists and criminals the freedom of action, while also dealing decisively with any internal betrayal,” a senior military source stressed.
As Nigeria continues to battle insurgency, banditry, and militancy, the latest developments suggest that the fight is as much about regaining the trust of citizens as it is about defeating enemies on the battlefield.