Operatives of the Nigerian Army, on Monday, July 22, 2024, apprehended ten suspected terrorists and recovered an AK-47 rifle with 33 rounds of ammunition in different operations in Taraba State, Nigeria.
This follows an Army report on a suspected criminal syndicate, including terrorists, mercenaries, and kidnappers.
The Acting Assistant Director of 6 Brigade, Army Public Relations, Oni Olubodunde, disclosed this in a statement.
The suspects were arrested for kidnapping and terrorist activities in the Galeri and Kwondo villages of Ardo-Kola and Bali.
These areas are located within Taraba State local government areas.
Following a tip-off on July 22, 2024, troops swiftly arrested two suspects named Ali Ibrahim and Wetti Ibrahim.
The suspects confessed to collaborating with terrorist leader Kadogo Fun, who operates in Bangalala and Kampani Zurak, Plateau State.
“The suspects were Emmanuel Michael, aka Assay; Gabriel Samuel, aka Badoo; Fidelis Utuna.
“Edward Ochan; John Orhenbaga; Desmond Agbo; Thomas Ikyar; and Shafiu Shaibu, aka Odogwu.
“During preliminary investigations, it was revealed that the gang leader was part of Terwase Akwaza, aka Gana’s gang.
Recoveries from the terrorists
Mr. Olubodunde noted the items recovered by the army from the terrorists in Taraba.
He said: “Items recovered include 10 military camouflage uniforms, the sum of N60,000.
“30 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition after a search was conducted at one of the arrested suspects’ houses.
“The suspects are currently in custody and will be handed over to relevant authorities for further investigation and possible prosecution”.
Oni praised the suspect apprehension and firearm recovery as proof of the strong bond between troops and the community.
“The Brigade, therefore, appeals to the good people of Taraba State to continue supporting the security agencies in ensuring lasting peace and security in the state and ridding the entire state of criminal elements. (SIC)
“Citizens are enjoined to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity. Together, we can build a safer and more secure Taraba State,” Oni said. (SIC)
Nigeria and terrorism
Terrorism remains a significant challenge in Taraba, and Nigeria in general, with several militant groups active in the country.
The most notorious among them are Boko Haram and its splinter group, the Islamic State’s West Africa Province (ISWAP).
These groups primarily operate in the northeastern region, targeting both civilian and military entities.
Despite a general decrease in terror-related deaths, Nigeria still ranks high globally in terms of terrorism threat levels.
Boko Haram and ISWAP have been responsible for numerous attacks, including bombings, kidnappings, and ambushes.
The death of Boko Haram’s leader, Abubakar Shekau, in 2021 led to a decrease in their attacks, but the threat persists.
Other terrorist groups like the Fulani extremists and various criminal gangs, often referred to as “bandits,” contribute to the violence.
Particularly in the northwest and north-central regions, these groups have been involved in kidnappings, attacks on villages, and other violent activities.
The Nigerian government, along with international partners, continues to combat these threats through military operations and counter-terrorism strategies.