The Nigerian Army has dismissed, as outdated and misleading, a video circulating across social media platforms purporting to show the recent arrest of a foreign arms dealer in Zamfara State.

In a statement released by Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Lt. Colonel Appolonia Anele, the Army clarified that the video in question does not depict a new development involving its troops but rather rehashes an incident from 2021.

“The individual shown in the video, Shehu Ali Kachalla, is a 30-year-old Nigerien national who was arrested by the Zamfara State Police Command on May 14, 2021,” the statement said.

According to the Army, Kachalla was apprehended during a joint intelligence-led operation conducted by the Federal Intelligence Bureau (FIB) and the Special Tactical Squad (STS) of the Nigeria Police Force.

It noted that, at the time of his arrest, Kachalla confessed to supplying over 450 rifles and thousands of rounds of ammunition to criminal elements operating across Zamfara, Kaduna, and Niger States.

The Army stressed that, while the suspect allegedly mentioned the involvement of an unnamed security personnel during his interrogation, no member of the Nigerian Army was found culpable or arrested in connection with the case.

Describing the video’s resurgence as an attempt to misinform the public and undermine ongoing security efforts, the Army urged Nigerians to disregard the recirculated clip and remain focused on verified information.

“This outdated video is being recirculated to create unnecessary panic and confusion.

“It does not represent the current security operations being undertaken by the Nigerian Armed Forces in Zamfara or any other part of the country,” the Army noted.

The Army reaffirmed its zero-tolerance stance toward unprofessional conduct within its ranks, emphasizing that, where such conduct is proven, disciplinary measures are strictly enforced in accordance with the Armed Forces Act and military regulations.

The Army also issued a stern appeal to social media influencers and content creators, advising them to verify the authenticity and timeline of content before sharing, so as not to inadvertently mislead the public or jeopardize national security efforts.

Reiterating its commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, the Army said it will continue to work closely with sister agencies and local communities in tackling terrorism, banditry, and other criminal threats.

“The Nigerian Army remains resolute in its constitutional mandate and will not be deterred by attempts to misinform or distract from our ongoing mission to restore peace and stability across the country,” the statement said.