The Nigerian Army has apprehended a soldier, Lance Corporal Mubarak Yakubu, over an alleged illegal possession of ammunition and explosives in Maiduguri, the Borno State capital.

The soldier was arrested during a routine search operation by the Military Police K9 Team at the Borno Express Terminal in Maiduguri.

The Director of Army Public Relations, Maj.-Gen. Onyema Nwachukwu, disclosed this via a statement issued on Thursday, May 9, 2024.

Nwachukwu said Yakubu was found in possession of 756 rounds of 7.62 mm special ammunition and four 36 hand grenades, concealed in a small bag of rice.

He noted that a preliminary investigation revealed that the soldier had been de-inducted from active theatre operations in March 2024 and was undergoing de-induction training at the Nigerian Army School of Infantry.

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The army spokesperson stated that the soldier was on a welfare pass from Jaji to Kaduna and Adamawa states from April 30 to May 13, 2024, when the arrest occurred.

Nwachukwu said the arrest underscores the Nigerian Army’s zero-tolerance policy towards any form of illegal activity or contravention of military regulations by its personnel.

He added: “The Nigerian Army wishes to assure the public that it will continue to act decisively to maintain discipline within its ranks and ensure the security of all Nigerians.

“The soldier in question is currently in custody and a thorough investigation has commenced to ascertain the full circumstances surrounding this incident and to apply the appropriate disciplinary measures.

“This proactive measure by the Military Police K9 Team reflects Nigerian Army’s relentless vigilance and its proactive approach to enforcing compliance with military laws and regulations.

“The Nigerian Army remains committed to its role as a professional military organization dedicated to the service of our nation and the protection of its citizenry.”

The Star