Troops Arrest NURTW Members For Arms Smuggling In Borno
The Defence Headquarters has confirmed the arrest of two members of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), allegedly linked to arms smuggling operations for terrorists in Borno State.
Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Markus Kangye, disclosed this during a press briefing in Abuja on Thursday, where he gave updates on ongoing military operations across the country.
According to Kangye, the suspects identified as Isah Abdullahi and Abdullahi Mohammed were arrested in Liya, a community in Biu Local Government Area of Borno, while receiving a suspicious consignment from a truck driver.
The arrest, he noted, was based on credible intelligence that prompted surveillance and swift military intervention.
“Two members of the National Union of Road Transport Workers, identified as Isah Abdullahi and Abdullahi Mohammed, were arrested in Liya, Biu LGA of Borno State while receiving a waybill from a truck driver, which matched intelligence earlier received regarding the consignment,” Kangye stated.
Recovered items from the operation included 13 pairs of military uniforms, high-voltage batteries, and other materials believed to be intended for use by insurgent groups.
In a separate development, troops arrested a 65-year-old man, Shaibu Bulama, at Damasak Motor Park in Yobe State. Bulama, believed to be a logistics supplier to terrorists, was found in possession of arms, ammunition, improvised explosive devices (IEDs), and a sum of ₦17,150.
The recovered explosives were safely detonated by security operatives.
Kangye further disclosed that ongoing operations in the North-East have continued to yield results, with 16 relatives of terrorists comprising four adult women and 12 children surrendering to troops in Bama Local Government Area on 14th July. Preliminary investigation revealed they fled from Bakura Jega village.
In the South-East, troops apprehended a suspected tax collector for the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), in Ihiala Local Government Area of Anambra State.
The suspect was reportedly mandated by the separatist group to extort money from local residents.
“Troops recovered ₦1.5 million from the arrested agent believed to be proceeds from illegal levies imposed on residents,” Kangye added.
Sodiq Lawal is a passionate and dedicated journalist with a knack for uncovering captivating stories in the bustling metropolis of Osun State and Nigeria at large. He has a versatile reporting style, covering a wide range of topics, from politics , campus, and social issues to arts and culture, seeking impact in all facets of the society.
