Military bursts kidnap syndicate, arrests three suspects in Taraba

Troops from the 6 Brigade of the Nigerian Army in Jalingo, Taraba State, successfully dismantled a kidnapping syndicate on Monday, arresting three individuals in a targeted operation aimed at reducing criminal activities in the region.

Captain Olubodunde Oni, the Acting Assistant Director of Army Public Relations for the 6 Brigade, announced that the operation, conducted by troops from the 6 Brigade and Sector 3 of Operation Whirl Stroke, effectively neutralized a notorious group responsible for terrorizing Jalingo and Lau Local Government Areas.

In a statement shared with journalists in Jalingo on Tuesday, it was revealed that following credible intelligence, the troops apprehended two suspects, Ali Idi and Haruna Umar, on October 22, 2024, during a raid at a hotel in the Mayo Dassa area.

The statement noted that a search of their mobile devices revealed incriminating evidence, including a photo of Haruna brandishing an AK-47 rifle alongside an unidentified accomplice.

Further investigation led the troops to the gang’s main hideout in Kona Mountain, where additional members were believed to be located. Acting on this information, the troops conducted a follow-up operation at Kona Mountain on October 23, leading to the capture of the gang leader, Dahiru Idi, also known as “Yellow.”

During questioning, Dahiru admitted to a recent kidnapping incident involving three victims, from whom the gang extorted a ransom of 6 million Naira. He also disclosed that their AK-47 rifles had been moved by an associate named Yakubu Dogo in anticipation of another operation.

The operation resulted in the seizure of several items, including three rings, an Airtel SIM card, an Itel phone, Indian hemp, and various charms, as detailed in the statement.

Brigadier General Kingsley Uwa, Commander of the 6 Brigade, commended the people of Taraba State for their continued support and reaffirmed the military’s dedication to fighting terrorism. He stated, “The safety of lives and property is our foremost concern. We will persist in our efforts to protect the citizens of Taraba and all Nigerians.” He also encouraged the public to stay vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the authorities.