TheCable

Ibrahim Ali, general officer commanding 3 Division in Rukuba, Jos North LGA, Plateau, says the army will deliver “heavy” punishments as a deterrent against officers involved in illegal arms trade.

Ali gave the directive on Wednesday during the inauguration of participants in the arms and ammunition storeman refresher course at the Base Ordinance Depot, Maxwell Khobe Cantonment in Jos.

“Let me warn that the Nigerian Army will deal heavily with any personnel that is involved in any illegal arms and ammunition deal,” he said.

Ali said the refresher course was organised in line with the chief of army staff’s vision of having “a professional Nigerian army ready to accomplish assigned duties within a joint environment in the defence of Nigeria”.

The course, he said, will enable armourers and aspiring armourers to be versatile in managing weapons and ammunition for the Nigerian army.

The GOC asked the participants to demonstrate the faith their units have in them by giving the training their full and undivided attention.

On his part, S.A. Alamu, commander, ordinance services of the division, said the course was aimed at training the participants on both theoretical and practical tasks and obligations of an armourer.

With a total of 30 participants from different formations, the course is expected to last till October 4.