The Nigerian Army has disowned a viral video claiming the recent arrest of a foreign arms dealer, Shehu Ali Kachalla, stating the footage is not linked to current military operations in Zamfara State.
In a statement, the acting director of Army Public Relations, Lt.-Col. Appolonia Anele, clarified that Kachalla, a 30-year-old Nigerien national, was actually arrested by the Zamfara State Police Command on May 14, 2021. His arrest followed a joint intelligence operation involving the Federal Intelligence Bureau and the Special Tactical Squad of the Nigeria Police Force.
Anele noted that Kachalla confessed to illegally supplying over 450 rifles and thousands of rounds of ammunition to criminals across Zamfara, Kaduna, and Niger States. Despite allegations by the suspect of collusion by unnamed security personnel, no Nigerian Army members were implicated or arrested.
The resurgence of this old video on social media, the Army said, appears intended to misinform the public and undermine ongoing counter-terrorism and anti-banditry efforts by the Nigerian Armed Forces.
The Army reaffirmed its zero-tolerance policy toward unprofessional conduct. Where misconduct is proven, appropriate disciplinary measures are taken under the Armed Forces Act and other military regulations.
The public was urged to disregard the recirculated video, labeled as outdated and misleading. Content creators and social media users were also advised to verify the authenticity and timing of materials before sharing to prevent unnecessary panic or confusion.
Lt.-Col. Anele reiterated the Nigerian Army’s commitment to defending Nigeria’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. The Army continues to collaborate with other security agencies and communities in combating terrorism, banditry, and other crimes threatening national peace and stability.
