Army dismisses six soldiers for ‘theft, selling of arms’ in Plateau

The 3 Division of the Nigerian Army (NA) in Jos has dismissed six soldiers over alleged involvement in criminal activities in Plateau. 

Liafis Bello, president of the court-martial, while delivering judgment on Thursday, said four of the personnel were arrested and another four sanctioned for various crimes.

Bello named the crimes as theft, selling of arms, criminal conspiracy, intimidation and cheating of civilians, among others. He added that the officers were found guilty during trial.

He said the judgment was in line with the provisions of the 1999 constitution as amended, and the Armed Forces Act (Rules of Procedure) 1972, and other extant laws.

“Recall that on Feb 17, this court was convened by Maj.-Gen. Abdulsalam Abubakar, the general officer commanding this division,” NAN quoted Bello as saying.

“Court martial in the Nigerian army is a routine duty aimed at ensuring strict compliance with the dictates of the military justice system.

“Since then, the court has been working and today it has delivered judgment on eight cases.

“Those jailed and dismissed personnel have committed offences considered to be inconsistent with service discipline, as well as against the laws of Nigeria.”

The president said the six dismissed soldiers, who were corporals and sergeants, were demoted to the ranks of private soldiers.

He added that the verdict followed principles of natural justice, equity and fairness.