Troops Arrest Ten Suspected Kidnappers In Taraba

Troops of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) from the 6 Brigade of the Nigerian Army, in collaboration with various security agencies, recently captured ten individuals suspected of involvement in kidnappings across Taraba State.

This development was confirmed in a press release by the acting assistant director of 6 Brigade Army public relations, Captain Oni Olubodunde.

Captain Olubodunde highlighted that the operations were executed with a high degree of precision and professionalism, following a reliable tip from a credible informant.

He further detailed that the military operations were carried out during the early morning hours of Monday in the villages of Galeri and Kwondo in Ardo-Kola and Bali Local Government Areas.

The captain emphasized the rapid and synchronized efforts of the 6th Brigade troops, which resulted in the successful apprehension of two suspects: Ali Ibrahim, also known as Yellow, and Wetti Alhaji Ibrahim.

During the arrest, several items were seized from the suspects, including an AK-47 rifle and 33 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, Naija News understands.

The statement also revealed that the suspects had affiliations with a notorious terrorist leader, Kadogo Fun, who is known to operate in the Bangalala and Kampani Zurak areas of Plateau State.

Furthermore, it was disclosed that the kidnappers also engage in mercenary activities for other terrorist organizations active in Plateau, Adamawa, and Taraba States.

Also, following the continuous attacks and abduction incidents in Southern Taraba State by terrorist groups disguised in military attire, the Brigade carried out several weeks of covert intelligence-led operations to locate the gang.

According to Olubodunde, this operation led to the capture of 8 suspects, identified as Emmanuel Michael, also known as Assay, Gabriel Samuel, also known as Badoo, Fidelis Lumu Utuna, Edward Ochan, John Orhenbaga, Desmond Agbo, Thomas Ikyar, and Shafiu Shaibu also known as Odogwu.

Upon initial investigation, it was discovered that the gang leader was associated with Terwase Akwaza, also known as Gana’s Gang.

Among the items seized were 10 Military Camouflage uniforms, the sum of Sixty Thousand Naira 60,000, and 30 rounds of 7.62MM Special ammunition following a search at one of the suspects’ residences.

The suspects are presently in custody and will be transferred to the appropriate authorities for further inquiries and potential prosecution.

The army stated that the successful capture of these suspects and the retrieval of the weapons demonstrate the efficiency and collaborative effort between the Brigade and the local community.

The Brigade, therefore, urged the people of Taraba State to continue supporting the security forces in maintaining lasting peace and security in the state, while eliminating criminal elements.

Citizens are advised to stay alert and report any suspicious activities, and every resident is encouraged to contribute to the establishment of a safer and more secure Taraba State.