[VIDEO] Army Punish Nigerian Soldier Allegedly Caught Stealing and Selling Ammunition, Uniforms to Bandits

Nigerian soldier, whose identity has been withheld, has been accused of stealing military ammunition and uniforms from his fellow soldiers and selling them to bandits in Katsina. The soldier is reportedly attached to the 35 Battalion in Katsina town.

A video obtained by Reporters shows the accused soldier being publicly tortured and flogged by his colleagues, with his hands tied behind his back. In the video, one of the soldiers, speaking in Pidgin English, is heard saying, “Him steal my ammunition, that one no do am, him steal my SF (Special Force) clothe, that one no do am, him still steal my regimental jacket.” This reveals that the soldier not only stole ammunition but also essential military clothing and equipment.

Another soldier in the video further condemns the act, stating, “See am, all of us dey the same unit, 35 battalion. He don lose guard, he go sell am go give bandit and he is our fellow soldier, we think say na our fellow soldier, not knowing na our enemy him be.” The soldiers are visibly angered by the betrayal, as they believed the accused to be a trusted member of their unit, unaware of his secret dealings with enemies.

Efforts to reach the Nigerian Army spokesman, Major General Onyema Nwachukwu, for comment have so far been unsuccessful. Calls to his phone were not answered, and no response has been received to a message sent to him at the time of filing this report.

This incident raises concerns over the infiltration of the Nigerian military by individuals who may be colluding with criminal elements such as bandits, terrorists, and other insurgents. In recent times, the Nigerian military has condemned several cases involving personnel aiding and abetting such criminals, a troubling trend that undermines the security forces' efforts to combat the rising insecurity in the country.

As investigations into this incident unfold, it remains crucial for the military to maintain discipline and ensure that such breaches of trust are dealt with decisively to prevent future occurrences.

This event has sparked outrage and anxiety among Nigerians, as the country's ongoing struggle with banditry and terrorism continues to threaten peace and stability, particularly in the northern region.