Odita Sunday 
Wanted Soldier Arrested While Allegedly Fleeing to Cameroon Over Terror Links
By Odita Sunday
A soldier declared wanted by the Nigerian Army over allegations of supplying military accoutrements to terrorists has been arrested by troops of Operation HADIN KAI while allegedly attempting to escape to the Republic of Cameroon, in what the military described as a major breakthrough in efforts to dismantle criminal support networks aiding insurgents.
The suspect, identified as 23NA/84/1939 Private Mohammed Yusuf of the Nigerian Army Ordnance Kits Factory, Lagos, was arrested at about 6:30 p.m. on July 25, 2026, by troops of 7 Provost Group at Jidari Bus Stop in Maiduguri following credible human intelligence.
He had been declared wanted by the Nigerian Army on July 23, 2026, over his alleged involvement in the illegal supply of military accoutrements to terrorists and other criminal elements.
According to a statement issued on Sunday by Captain Mohammed Goni, Acting Military Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East) Operation HADIN KAI, preliminary investigations revealed that the soldier absconded from his unit on July 7, 2026, before relocating to Maiduguri.
The statement said the suspect allegedly went into hiding in the Gomari Costain area of Jere Local Government Area with the assistance of an associate before his arrest while allegedly attempting to flee the country through Cameroon.
Operation HADIN KAI said the arrest highlights the effectiveness of intelligence-driven operations and reflects the Nigerian Army’s determination to hold its personnel accountable for actions capable of undermining military ethics, discipline and national security.
The military disclosed that the suspect is currently in the custody of the 7 Provost Group, where further investigations are ongoing to determine the full scope of his alleged activities and identify other individuals who may have been involved.
Reaffirming its commitment to the counter-insurgency campaign, Operation HADIN KAI declared that there is no safe haven for anyone supporting terrorism or criminality, regardless of status.
The military also urged members of the public to continue providing timely and credible information to security agencies, describing public cooperation as vital to restoring lasting peace and security across the North-East.
About the Author
