Odita Sunday 
By Odita Sunday
Troops of the Nigerian Army have intensified crackdowns on criminal elements across the country, arresting suspected bandits and recovering arms, ammunition, and other incriminating items during coordinated operations in Kaduna and Abia states.
The successful operations were carried out by troops under Joint Task Force North West, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, and Joint Task Force South East, Operation UDO KA, as part of renewed efforts to strengthen internal security and sustain ongoing offensives against criminal groups.
In Kaduna State, troops of 2 Battalion deployed at the Forward Operating Base Dogon Dawa intercepted a suspected bandit during a snap roadblock operation at Damari in Birnin Gwari Local Government Area on May 8, 2026.
The suspect, identified as 32-year-old Ibrahim Adamu, was apprehended while riding a motorcycle.
Troops recovered one AK-47 magazine, three mobile phones, Indian hemp, and other items from him.
Military sources disclosed that preliminary exploitation of the suspect’s mobile phone uncovered incriminating photographs allegedly showing him dressed in military camouflage and posing with a PKT machine gun alongside other suspected bandits.
The suspect and recovered items are currently in military custody for further investigation.
Similarly, troops of 14 Brigade under Operation UDO KA in the South East responded to a distress call on May 9, 2026, over alleged illegal possession of firearms at Umuoriehe village in Umuahia North Local Government Area of Abia State.
Acting on credible intelligence, the troops stormed the area and arrested 22-year-old Ifeanyi Ezebuiro, from whom a foreign-made Ruger pistol was recovered.
During preliminary interrogation, the suspect reportedly claimed that the firearm belonged to his late father. He remains in custody while investigations continue.
The Nigerian Army said the operations underscore its determination to deny criminal elements freedom of action and ensure the protection of lives and property across the country.
The Army reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining aggressive operations against all forms of insecurity in line with its constitutional mandate of safeguarding Nigeria’s territorial integrity and national peace.
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