By Hajara Abdullahi
The Nigerian Army has arrested 20 suspects and rescued nine kidnapped victims in a series of coordinated operations across the North East, North West and North Central regions.
This was disclosed in a statement issued by the Nigerian Army on Sunday.
The statement added that the operations led to the recovery of an AK-47 rifle, ammunition and other items linked to criminal elements.
“In a series of high-intensity operations conducted over the last 24 hours, the Nigerian Army has further decimated criminal networks across the country, resulting in the arrest of 20 high-profile suspects, the recovery of an AK-47 rifle with specialised ammunition and the rescue of nine kidnapped victims,” the statement read.
The Army noted that the operations also disrupted terrorist activities across multiple regions.
“These synchronised strikes across the North East, North West and North Central theatres have effectively disrupted terrorist logistics chains and denied remnants of these groups any breathing space,” it stated.
According to the statement, in the North East, troops of the 21 Special Armoured Brigade carried out operations in Borno State, leading to the arrest of 14 suspects, including individuals linked to the notorious kidnapper Baba Ali. It added that insurgents in Marte were forced to abandon their positions.
“Simultaneously, a combined force in Marte LGA forced a group of insurgents to flee their positions, abandoning bicycles and essential supplies during the encounter,” the statement said.
In the North West, troops conducted operations in Kaduna State, resulting in the recovery of rustled livestock and the rescue of victims.
“Most significantly, troops engaged terrorists at Lahin Dan Auta, successfully rescuing three kidnapped victims who have since been reunited with their families, demonstrating the Army’s rapid response capability,” the statement added.
In the North Central region, operations in Benue State led to the arrest of suspected traffickers and armed groups.
“A targeted raid in Gwer West led to the rescue of six victims and the apprehension of a suspected trafficker. Furthermore, a patrol in Guma LGA resulted in the arrest of three terrorists and the recovery of one AK-47 rifle, two magazines and 27 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition,” it said.
The Nigerian Army reaffirmed its commitment to securing the lives and property of citizens, urging the public to remain vigilant and continue supporting its operations with timely information.