By Nkechi Eze
Troops of the Nigerian Army operating under Joint Task Force (JTF) North West, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, and Joint Task Force South East, Operation UDO KA, have recorded fresh operational successes with the arrest of suspected criminal elements and recovery of arms and other incriminating items during coordinated security operations in Kaduna and Abia states.
The operations, conducted as part of ongoing offensives against criminal networks and internal security threats across the country, led to the interception of suspected bandits and illegal firearm possessors in both theatres of operation.
In the North West theatre, troops of 2 Battalion deployed at the Forward Operating Base Dogon Dawa intercepted a suspected bandit identified as Ibrahim Adamu, 32, during a snap roadblock operation at Damari in Birnin Gwari Local Government Area of Kaduna State on 8 May 2026.
Military sources disclosed that the suspect was intercepted while riding a motorcycle, following which troops recovered one AK-47 magazine, three mobile phones, Indian hemp and other items from him.
Preliminary exploitation of the suspect’s mobile phone reportedly revealed incriminating photographs showing him dressed in military camouflage and armed with a PKT machine gun alongside other suspected bandits.
The suspect and recovered items are currently in military custody for further investigation.
In a related development in the South East, troops of 14 Brigade under JTF South East Operation UDO KA responded swiftly to a distress call on 9 May 2026 regarding suspected illegal possession of a firearm at Umuoriehe village in Umuahia North Local Government Area of Abia State.
Acting on credible intelligence, troops mobilised to the area and arrested one Ifeanyi Ezebuiro, 22, during the operation.
Security operatives recovered one foreign-made Ruger pistol from the suspect during the raid.
During preliminary interrogation, the suspect reportedly claimed that the firearm belonged to his late father.
Military authorities confirmed that the suspect and the recovered weapon remain in custody pending further investigation.
The Nigerian Army stated that the latest operational gains underscored its sustained determination to deny criminal elements freedom of action and ensure the safety and security of law-abiding citizens across the country.
The Army further reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining aggressive operations against all forms of insecurity in line with its constitutional responsibility of safeguarding Nigeria’s territorial integrity and preserving national peace.
