Security Breach: Troops Detain 18 Soldiers, 15 Police Officers for Selling Weapons to Terrorists

In a major crackdown on illegal arms dealings, troops from Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK) have arrested 18 serving soldiers and 15 police officers for allegedly selling weapons to terrorists and other criminal groups.

At a press briefing on Wednesday, Major Ademola Owolana detailed the progress of Operation Snowball, launched in August 2024 to combat ammunition racketeering across the North-East and other regions. The operation covered 11 states including Bauchi, Benue, Borno, Ebonyi, Enugu, Lagos, Plateau, Kaduna, Rivers, Taraba, and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

Owolanа confirmed that apart from the military and police personnel, eight civilians, including a traditional ruler, were also apprehended for involvement in arms trafficking.

He explained that the lucrative nature of the illegal trade is driving some security personnel to divert weapons from military stockpiles to criminals. Notably, Ameh Raphael, an armourer from the 7th Division Garrison active since 2018, had N45 million in his bank account. Similarly, Seidi Adamu of the 3rd Division Ordnance Services, involved since 2022, held N34 million. Police inspector Enoch Ngwa reportedly had N135 million pass through his account linked to arms trafficking.

Major Owolana also raised concerns about some NGOs allegedly transporting additives and food items to terrorist camps under the pretense of humanitarian aid. He warned that such betrayals undermine troop morale and effectiveness, strengthening enemy resistance.

The latest arrest occurred on February 24, when a soldier from the 144 Battalion was caught with 30 rounds of 7.62mm ammunition during a search operation in Tashin-Karo, Kano.

The military has issued stern warnings that those caught will face dismissal and prosecution to deter future offenses.