The British High Commission has clarified that the individual linked to an alleged gun-running operation in Delta State was never a commissioned officer in the United Kingdom Armed Forces.
This follows claims by the Ijaw Youths Network, which commended Nigeria’s Department of State Services (DSS) for intercepting 57 AK-47 rifles, other firearms, and ammunition reportedly smuggled into the country by a Delta State-born individual described as a UK army Major. The group also called for a British government investigation into the matter.
Responding on Wednesday, a spokesperson for the British High Commission stated: “The individual identified in recent Nigerian media reporting is not a serving member of the UK Armed Forces.”
The spokesperson further clarified that the individual had served only as a junior rank in the UK Armed Forces Reserves and was later discharged. At no point, the statement stressed, was the person a commissioned officer.
Citing legal obligations under common law and the Data Protection Act, the High Commission declined to release further personal details but urged the media to reflect the facts accurately. “We kindly request that this statement be reflected in your reporting to ensure factual accuracy,” the spokesperson added.
The High Commission also advised that future inquiries related to UK personnel should be directed to its Press and Public Affairs team.
