The Nigerian Army has successfully disrupted a nationwide terrorist logistics network, arresting 11 suspected suppliers and rescuing nine kidnapped victims during coordinated operations within 48 hours, a source at Army Headquarters confirmed on Tuesday.
According to The PUNCH, a source disclosed that the troops also recovered N1.1 million in cash, 114 livestock, one pump-action rifle, four live cartridges, petroleum products, and other items from the suspects.
“In Borno State, troops of the 149 Battalion arrested eight suspected Boko Haram/ISWAP logistics suppliers on 7 September. Among the items recovered were 28 jerrycans and a drum of petrol concealed in shops and a POS centre, N145,510 in cash, and five mobile phones,” the source said.
In Katsina State, troops of the 17 Brigade thwarted a terrorist attack at Gidan Kwairo village in Malumfashi Local Government Area, rescuing five kidnapped individuals as the assailants fled.
The Army also apprehended a dismissed soldier, ex-Lance Corporal Emefik Michael, in Ogun State for allegedly extorting money from residents while wearing military uniform.
“The suspect, dismissed from service in 2017, has been handed over to the police for prosecution,” the source added.
In Bayelsa State, 5 Battalion troops, in collaboration with the NSCDC and a private security outfit, arrested a notorious oil wellhead vandal in Okordia, Yenagoa. The suspect is now under investigation by the Department of State Services.
Similarly, in Edo State, 4 Brigade troops under Operation MESA arrested a suspected militant at Kokotoro Camp in Ovia South-West Local Government Area.
“We recovered a pump-action rifle and four live cartridges, and the criminals’ camp has been destroyed,” the source said.
In Taraba State, Operation Enduring Peace troops intercepted two suspects on a motorcycle at Gayam checkpoint in Gashaka Local Government Area carrying N1 million cash. Preliminary investigations revealed that a farmer had been murdered on 6 September.
In Plateau State, troops seized 105 cattle and nine rams found grazing without herders in Mangu Local Government Area. The livestock were secured while community leaders were contacted to identify the owners.
In Kaduna State, troops of Forward Operating Base Sanga foiled a kidnap attempt in Ungwan Bera village, rescuing four victims, including two children. Two of the rescued victims sustained injuries and were taken to ECWA Private Hospital, Fadan Karshi, for treatment.
The Army reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining nationwide operations aimed at preventing terrorists and criminals from gaining freedom of action.
“Our operations continue across the country to ensure the safety and security of all citizens,” the source emphasized.