Troops of the Nigerian Army under Operation Hadin Kai have recorded a series of operational successes across multiple states, including the arrest of two suspected gunrunners acting on the instructions of a Lagos prison inmate to procure arms in Ondo State for use by bandits in Zamfara State.
A credible military source disclosed that the suspects were intercepted by troops of the 323 Artillery Regiment in Igbara-Oke, Ifedore Local Government Area of Ondo State. The illicit deal was allegedly coordinated by an inmate at the Kirikiri Correctional Centre in Lagos.
“This is part of an orchestrated effort to arm criminal elements in Zamfara State. The suspects were on a mission to purchase weapons before they were intercepted by vigilant troops,” the source said.
Meanwhile, in Yobe State, troops of 120 Task Force Battalion in Katarko, Gujba Local Government Area, apprehended a suspected foreign terrorist from Niger Republic who was attempting to breach a security perimeter. His inability to speak any Nigerian language has prompted further investigation into possible transnational terror links.
In Borno State, troops of 202 Battalion in Bama received an adult female and a child—both relatives of terrorists—who voluntarily surrendered after escaping from the Churchur axis. Military authorities described the development as an indication of sustained pressure on insurgent enclaves.
Elsewhere, in Sokoto State, troops of 8 Division Garrison engaged armed militants in a fierce gun duel in Tsamaye and Mai Lalle communities, Sabon Birni Local Government Area, killing two and recovering three AK-47 rifles along with a motorcycle.
In Kebbi State, troops of 1 Battalion Rear foiled a cattle rustling attempt in Sauna Village, Argungu LGA. The rustlers fled, abandoning 251 cows which were subsequently recovered and returned to their rightful owners.
In Delta State, troops discovered a tricycle transporting approximately 200 litres of suspected illegally refined diesel along the Jeddo-Omadino axis in Warri South LGA.
In a separate operation, seven suspects were arrested from a suspected IPOB/ESN hideout in Okpanam, Oshimili North LGA. Recovered items included a motorcycle, four mobile phones, and other logistics materials.
The source reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s commitment to internal security and public order, assuring the public that ongoing operations across the country will continue with high intensity.