Two officers flee as military expands arrests over alleged coup plot

Two Nigerian military officers have reportedly gone into hiding after being linked to an alleged plan to overthrow the country’s democratic government.

According to a report by The CABLE, sources disclosed that the armed forces have continued to detain additional suspects following the initial questioning of 16 officers who were apprehended in the first week of October in connection with the foiled coup attempt.

According to findings, 18 officers were slated for arrest, but two managed to escape and are now believed to have left Nigeria.

Military sources identified one of the fugitives as Major JM Ganaks, with service number N/14363, who hails from the Federal Capital Territory. Ganaks, a member of Regular Course 58 of the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA), was reportedly stationed in Jaji, Kaduna State.

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Also said to be on the run is Captain Binuga, from Taraba State. He was attached to DHQ SOF Bida, Niger State, and was part of Regular Course 64.

Information obtained from some of the detained officers has allegedly aided the authorities in apprehending more suspects, with sources estimating that over 30 officers are now in custody.

While some detainees are reportedly refusing to speak, others have been described as “very cooperative.”

Contrary to speculation, the alleged coup was not scheduled for October 1, as the arrests only took place in the first week of the month.

Although the Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has not officially confirmed the alleged coup plot, it stated that the ongoing investigation of the 16 officers is part of a “routine internal process aimed at ensuring discipline and professionalism within the ranks.”
(The CABLE)