Army declares soldier wanted over ‘sale of military uniforms to terrorists
The Nigerian Army Ordnance Corps (NAOC) has declared Mohammed Amutu, one of its personnel, wanted over his alleged involvement in the illegal sale and supply of military uniforms to terrorists and criminals.
In a statement issued on Thursday, Oluwatope Aluko, assistant director of army public relations at the corps headquarters, said preliminary investigations showed that the soldier, who was attached to the Nigerian Army Ordnance Kits Factory, absconded from his unit on June 3.
“Consequently, he has been declared wanted by the appropriate military authorities, while intensive efforts are underway to locate and apprehend him to face a full investigation and appropriate disciplinary action in accordance with extant military laws,” the statement reads.
Aluko said the army has “zero tolerance” for misconduct, indiscipline, or any act capable of undermining its operational effectiveness or threatening national security.
He warned that any personnel found to have aided terrorists, criminals or other non-state actors through the unauthorised sale, diversion or distribution of military uniforms, accoutrements or other controlled items would face the full weight of military and civil laws.
Aluko appealed to members of the public to provide credible information that could lead to the arrest of the wanted soldier.
He also reassured Nigerians of the army’s commitment to accountability, professionalism and the protection of military assets.
He added that army would continue to strengthen internal control measures and ensure that all allegations of misconduct are thoroughly investigated while culpable personnel are held accountable.