Troops Nab 12 Suspected Kidnappers In Taraba
Troops of 6 Brigade Nigerian Army and Sector 3 Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) have apprehended 12 suspected kidnappers in Taraba State.
The troops recovered 14 motorcycles, a locally fabricated pistol, and two bags of Indian hemp.
A statement by Captain Olubodunde Oni, Acting Assistant Director Information of the Brigade, said this followed the troops’ response to a distress call on November 9.
“Following distress call from the residents of Chachanji village regarding the abduction of two individuals by a group of about 10 armed men on motorcycles on 7 November 2024. Acting immediately, troops launched a rapid response operation aimed at rescuing the victims and intercepting the kidnappers.
“Upon making contact with the armed group, the superior firepower of the troops forced the kidnappers to withdraw deep into the bush, leaving behind their locally fabricated pistol and two bags of Indian hemp.
“The troops’ thorough exploitation of the area prevented further criminal activity and disrupted the kidnappers’ operations.
“In a subsequent follow-up operation which was based on credible intelligence, troops on 9 November 2024 arrested 12 suspects and seized 14 motorcycles at a local drinking joint in Mbhakyir village close to Agu Center.
He said in the course of investigation, the suspects admitted to being part of the kidnapping operation and identified their leader as one Veior John Gata, a notorious terrorist on the wanted list of security agencies.
Veior has been orchestrating criminal activities in parts of southern Taraba and Benue states.
“The suspects further confessed that Veior was with them at Agu centre on 5 November 2024 before the killing of two locals and abduction of two individuals on 6th and 7th November, respectively, at Chachanji general area.
“They added that Veior was displeased with the locals in Chachanji. Hence, he wanted to ensure the market was closed down by putting fear and terror in the minds of both buyers and sellers.
“While commending the efforts of residents for their cooperation and encouraging them to continue providing timely and credible information to facilitate security operations.”
He assured that the 6 Brigade Nigerian Army remains committed to ensuring the safety and security of all communities within its area of operation.
“Members of the public are advised to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to security agencies,” Oni stated.
