Troops of the Nigerian Army operating under Joint Task Force North West, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, and Joint Task Force South East, Operation UDO KA, have recorded fresh operational successes following the arrest of suspected criminals and recovery of arms and other incriminating items in Kaduna and Abia states.
The military disclosed that the operations were part of ongoing offensives aimed at combating criminal activities and strengthening internal security across the country.
In the North West theatre, troops of 2 Battalion deployed at the Forward Operating Base in Dogon Dawa reportedly intercepted a suspected bandit during a snap roadblock operation conducted at Damari in Birnin Gwari Local Government Area of Kaduna State on May 8, 2026.
The suspect, identified as 32-year-old Ibrahim Adamu, was apprehended while riding a motorcycle.
According to the military, troops recovered one AK-47 magazine, three mobile phones, suspected Indian hemp and other items from the suspect.
Preliminary exploitation of the suspect’s mobile phone allegedly revealed photographs showing him dressed in military camouflage and carrying a PKT machine gun alongside other suspected bandits.
The suspect and recovered items are currently in military custody pending further investigation.
Similarly, in the South East, troops of 14 Brigade under Joint Task Force South East Operation UDO KA responded to a distress call on May 9, 2026, regarding the suspected illegal possession of a firearm at Umuoriehe village in Umuahia North Local Government Area of Abia State.
Acting on what the military described as credible intelligence, troops mobilised to the area and arrested a 22-year-old suspect identified as Ifeanyi Ezebuiro.
During the operation, troops reportedly recovered a foreign-made Ruger pistol from the suspect.
According to preliminary investigations, the suspect allegedly claimed that the firearm belonged to his late father.
The Nigerian Army said the suspect and the recovered weapon remain in custody as investigations continue.
Military authorities described the operations as part of sustained efforts to deny criminal elements freedom of action and ensure the safety of law-abiding citizens across the country.
The Army reiterated its commitment to maintaining aggressive operations against all forms of insecurity in line with its constitutional responsibility of protecting Nigeria’s territorial integrity and preserving national peace.
