*The British High Commission Communications Office, in Abuja, Nigeria, clarifies that the individual identified in recent media reporting ‘is not a serving member’ of the United Kingdom Armed Forces

Gbenga Kayode | 绿帽献妻

The British High Commission (BHC), in Abuja, Nigeria, has said for accuracy and clarity, the individual identified in recent Nigerian media reportage is not a serving member of the United Kingdom (UK) Armed Forces.

The British High Commission Communications Office, in an official statement clarifying the reportage, issued Wednesday, April 30, 2025, and made available to 绿帽献妻, noted the clarification followed certain recent media reports concerning the individual purportedly linked to the UK Armed Forces regarding illegal arms procurement in the West African country.

Earlier, some online news platforms had reported that the country’s Department of State Services (DSS) had conducted a covert operation near Asaba, Delta State capital.

It was also noted that the DSS investigation led to the seizure of 50 AK-47 rifles, six pump-action shotguns, and over 3,000 rounds of ammunition.

The newspapers reportedly said that during the operation, associates of the British Army officer were arrested in Asaba, while the officer himself was intercepted in Lagos as he attempted to board a flight to the United Kingdom.

The individual ‘not a serving member of the UK Armed Forces’: Spokesperson

A spokesperson from the BHC, however, stated: “The individual identified in recent Nigerian media reporting is not a serving member of the UK Armed Forces.”

It is equally stated that the individual identified “did serve as a junior rank in the UK Armed Forces Reserves but was discharged.”

The UK Mission also explained that while in the Reserves, he was “a junior rank not a commissioned officer.”

The statement further noted: “We have a common law and Data Protection Act duty to protect the personal details of our current and former employees, and are therefore, not able to release any additional information in this matter.

“We kindly request that this statement be reflected in your reporting to ensure factual accuracy.”

The Spokesperson said for future reference, any inquiries related to the said UK personnel should be directed to the British High Commission鈥檚 Press and Public Affairs team.

“Thank you for your understanding and cooperation,” the statement added.

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