The Nigerian Army has arrested a serving soldier and four drug peddlers during a raid targeting an alleged illicit drug distribution network in Plateau State.
Those arrested identified as Lance Corporal Luka Yakubu of the 82 Battalion, Abdulkarim Abubakar, Adam Musa, John Isah and Charles Ibrahim were nabbed during an enforcement by the military operatives that led to the recovery of substances believed to be marijuana and other prohibited drugs, which have been taken into custody as exhibits pending forensic analysis.
The arrests which took place around 5 p.m. on July 30 in the Congo-Russia area of Jos North Local Government Area of Plateau State was followed with preliminary findings indicating that the soldier had allegedly been absent without official leave (AWOL) and was suspected of involvement in illegal drug trafficking activities.
“The operation is part of ongoing efforts to dismantle criminal networks fueling insecurity through drug trafficking and other illicit activities,” a military source said, adding that the suspects remain in military custody and are undergoing further investigation as security agencies work to determine whether they have links to wider criminal syndicates operating within the state.
Speaking further, the source said the operation forms part of Operation Enduring Peace’s sustained campaign against criminal hideouts across the State, stressing that similar intelligence-led raids would continue to curb drug trafficking and other crimes.
“We will sustain operations against criminal elements to enhance security and ensure communities remain safe,” the source added.