Military bursts kidnap syndicate, arrests three suspects in Taraba
CHIGOZIE AMADI
Troops of the 6 Brigade, Nigerian Army, Jalingo in Taraba state on Monday burst a kidnap syndicate and arrested three suspects in a targeted operation to curb criminal activities in the state.
In a statement released by the Acting Assistant Director, 6 Brigade Army Public Relations, Captain Olubodunde Oni, the troops from the 6 Brigade and Sector 3, Operation Whirl Stroke, during the operation successfully dismantled the notorious kidnapping syndicate that had been terrorising Jalingo and Lau Local Government Areas.
According to the statement made available to journalists in Jalingo on Tuesday, the troops acting on credible intelligence first apprehended two suspects, Ali Idi and Haruna Umar on October 22, 2024, during a raid on a hotel in the Mayo Dassa area of Jalingo.
According to the statement, “A search of their mobile phones uncovered incriminating evidence, including a photograph of Haruna holding an AK-47 rifle alongside an unidentified accomplice.
“The investigation pointed to the gang’s primary hideout at Kona Mountain in Jalingo Local Government Area, where other members were reportedly stationed.
“Acting on this intelligence, troops launched a follow-up operation at Kona Mountain on October 23, resulting in the capture of the gang leader, Dahiru Idi, also known as “Yellow.”
“During interrogation, Dahiru confessed to a recent kidnapping operation involving three victims, from whom the gang had extorted a ransom of 6 million Naira. He also revealed that their AK-47 rifles had been relocated by an associate, Yakubu Dogo, in preparation for another operation.
“Seized items from the suspects included three rings, one Airtel SIM card, an Itel phone, Indian hemp, and various charms,” the statement read partly.
The statement quoted the Commander of the 6 Brigade, Brigadier General Kingsley Uwa as lauding the people of Taraba State for their ongoing support and emphasized the military’s commitment to combating terrorism.
“The safety of lives and property remains our top priority. We will continue to work relentlessly to protect the people of Taraba and all Nigerians,” he stated, urging the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to authorities.
