Nigerian Military Detains Over Two Dozen Soldiers and Police Officers Over Weapons Sales to Armed Groups
Maiduguri, May 30, 2025 – The Nigerian military has arrested 33 security personnel, including 18 serving soldiers and 15 police officers, for allegedly selling weapons from military stockpiles to armed groups, including Islamist insurgents such as Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP). The arrests are part of a broader crackdown on illegal arms trafficking within and beyond conflict zones in Nigeria.
Details of the Operation
The arrests were announced by the Theatre Commander of Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK), Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar, during a press briefing in Maiduguri, Borno State. The operation, code-named “Operation Snowball,” was launched in August 2024 to target ammunition racketeering across 11 states, including Bauchi, Benue, Borno, Ebonyi, Enugu, Lagos, Plateau, Kaduna, Rivers, Taraba, and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
In addition to the soldiers and police officers, eight civilians and one traditional ruler were also apprehended for their involvement in the illicit arms trade.
Allegations and Financial Evidence
Among those arrested is Ameh Raphael, an armourer with the 7th Division Garrison, who has allegedly been involved in arms trafficking since 2018. Investigators found that he had amassed approximately ₦45 million in his bank account from proceeds of illegal arms sales.
Another suspect, Seidi Adamu, serving with the 3rd Division Ordnance Services, has reportedly been involved since 2022 and was found with ₦34 million in his bank account linked to the trade.
A police inspector, Enoch Ngwa, is also implicated, with financial records showing ₦135 million passing through his account, reinforcing suspicions of his deep involvement in arms racketeering.
Military’s Stance and Impact
Captain Reuben Kovangiya, spokesperson for the military’s anti-insurgency campaign, emphasized that the operation is part of an ongoing effort to combat arms and ammunition trafficking that undermines military effectiveness and strengthens insurgent groups.
He stated,
“Any personnel involved in actions detrimental to our system will face arrest and prosecution.”
The military highlighted that such illegal activities erode battlefield morale and reduce the effectiveness of troops fighting insurgents in Nigeria’s northeast.
Context of the Crisis
Nigeria faces persistent security challenges, including a brutal insurgency in the northeast and widespread banditry and kidnappings in the northwest and Middle Belt regions. Militants have frequently overrun military installations, seizing arms and ammunition to bolster their capabilities.
The military’s crackdown aims to stem the flow of weapons to these groups and restore order in conflict-affected areas.
Ongoing Investigation
The authorities confirmed that investigations are ongoing, and all those found complicit, regardless of rank or status, will be prosecuted under the law. The military also warned troops at all levels about the severe repercussions of ammunition racketeering, including dismissal and criminal charges.
