Army Nabs 10 Suspects, Including Notorious Kidnap Informants In Taraba

In a series of intelligence-driven operations, troops of the 6 Brigade Nigerian Army and Sector 3 of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) successfully arrested 10 suspects, including 8 Boko Haram terrorists and 2 high-profile informants linked to kidnappers, as part of ongoing efforts to bolster security in Taraba State.

Captain Olubodunde Oni, Acting Assistant Director of Army Public Relations for the 6 Brigade, announced this in a statement on Monday, September 30, 2024.

Acting on credible intelligence, troops raided the residence of a terrorist leader, Tukura Abdul-Kareem, in the Sunkani Ward of Ardo-Kola Local Government Area on September 29, 2024. The operation led to the arrest of Abdul-Kareem and seven additional suspects who had traveled from different states to join the terror cell. Investigation revealed that the Boko Haram members were planning to establish a sleeper cell in Taraba with the intent to carry out IED (Improvised Explosive Device) attacks on innocent civilians and key infrastructures in the state. Abdul-Kareem also admitted his long-standing involvement with Boko Haram.

Recovered items from the suspects included nine mobile phones, identity cards, and packages of controlled substances suspected to be marijuana and other hard drugs.

In a separate operation on September 30, 2024, troops stationed in Chachanji village, Takum LGA, arrested two informants working with a high-profile kidnapping syndicate. These individuals were providing critical intelligence to kidnappers, assisting a notorious wanted criminal by informing them about the movements of troops and identifying potential kidnapping targets, particularly local businessmen.

Brigadier General Kingsley Chidiebere Uwa, Commander of the 6 Brigade, praised the troops for their professionalism and swift actions, which disrupted a dangerous terrorist plot and saved lives. He also expressed gratitude to the citizens of Taraba for their vigilance and cooperation, emphasizing the importance of community support in maintaining peace and security in the state.