Nigerian Army Foils Gun Trafficking, Kidnapping Operations, Rescues Hostages

Nigerian Army Foils Gunrunner’s Plans and Rescues Kidnap Hostages in Major Crackdown

In a significant victory against criminal networks, the Nigerian Army has announced the arrest of a notorious gunrunner and the rescue of kidnapped hostages in separate operations. The military also intercepted a tanker truck transporting illegally refined petroleum products and warned the public to support their efforts in maintaining national security.

According to a statement issued by the Department of Army Public Relations, Mallam Hashimu Ahmad, a wanted gunrunner, was apprehended at Saminaka in Lere Local Government Area of Kaduna State on Saturday. The suspect was on transit to deliver sophisticated weapons, including a General Purpose Machine Gun, a Rocket Propelled Grenade Launcher, one RPG bomb, 1,069 rounds of 7.62mm (special) ammunition, and one belt of 7.62mm NATO ammunition. The recovered arms and ammunition, as well as the vehicle used to transport them, are fully accounted for.

In another operation, troops in Delta State intercepted a tanker truck carrying 15,000 liters of substance suspected to be illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil (AGO) at Ozoro, in Isoko North Local Government Area. The two suspects conveying the illegal product were taken into custody for preliminary investigation before being handed over to the appropriate prosecuting agency.

Furthermore, troops on patrol in Sokoto State successfully rescued kidnapped hostages who were abducted and taken into the forest while on transit. Responding to distress calls, the troops moved swiftly to the location and engaged the kidnappers in a gun duel, leading to the safe extrication of the hostages. The rescued hostages have been reunited with their families.

The Nigerian Army emphasized its commitment to protecting the nation and dismantling all criminal networks that induce insecurity. The military urged the public to support their efforts by providing actionable information that can enhance troops’ operations against terrorists and other criminal elements, ensuring a safe and secure society for all.

These operations demonstrate the Nigerian Army’s dedication to combating terrorism and organized crime, and its efforts to promote national security and stability.