Troops Arrest Deserter Soldier, Recover Rifle and Ammunition in Maiduguri
By: Zagazola Makama
Troops of the 7 Division Provost Group have arrested a soldier who allegedly absconded from duty with his personal weapon and was reportedly involved in criminal activities in parts of Maiduguri, Borno State.
Military sources disclosed that the suspect, identified Pte Umar Bema of the 50 Task Force Battalion, New Marte, attached to the 81 Division Task Force Battalion, Dikwa, was apprehended on June 1 at about 7:30 p.m.
According to the sources, the soldier had earlier deserted his unit with his rifle on April 30, 2026, before being traced to his family residence in Ngomari Costain area of Maiduguri.
The sources further revealed that preliminary investigations indicated the soldier had been moving around areas such as Abbaganaran, Gwange and Galadima within Maiduguri, where he was allegedly linked to acts of robbery and other misconduct.
Troops recovered the soldier’s rifle along with two AK-47 magazines during the arrest.
The suspect is currently in the custody of the 7 Division Provost Group for further investigation and disciplinary action in line with military procedures.
Security authorities described the arrest as part of ongoing efforts to enforce discipline within the ranks and ensure accountability among personnel deployed in operational theatres.
