By Sumaila Ogbaje
The Nigerian Army says its troops have apprehended two suspected kidnappers in Plateau, rescued a community leader with gunshot wounds and recovered ammunition allegedly linked to terrorist logistics in Sokoto.
An operational report detailing military activities between Oct. 17 and 18, made available to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) said the operations were conducted across the North-East, North-West and North-Central regions.
According to the report, troops arrested the two suspected kidnappers on a motorcycle at Pentor village in Mangu Local Government Area of Plateau on Oct. 17.
“The suspects were allegedly members of a criminal gang terrorising residents of Chanso, Pushit and Janaret districts of the state.
“In another incident in Plateau, troops rescued the chairman of Miyetti Allah Langai District, who sustained gunshot wounds during an attack by suspected Fulani militia,” it said.
The report said troops rescued the victim around the Makera axis and evacuated him to General Hospital Botto for medical attention.
It added that the attack might be linked to the victim’s recent remarks at a burial, where he reportedly urged residents to shun criminality and stop destroying farms.
The report said efforts were ongoing to apprehend the assailants.
“In Sokoto, troops of 248 Recce Battalion Quick Reaction Force, operating around Tsauna, conducted a snap check along the Tumbulukum-Saurna Road in Illela Local Government Area.
“The operation followed intelligence on the movement of suspected Lakurawa terrorist logistics suppliers, while a suspect abandoned a motorcycle and fled on sighting the troops.
“A search of the motorcycle led to the recovery of 107 rounds of 7.62mm NATO ammunition and five rounds of 7.62mm ammunition concealed in its engine compartment,” it said.
The report further revealed that troops and members of the Civilian Joint Task Force conducted further exploitation around Forward Operating Base Mairari in Guzamala Local Government Area of Borno.
It added that the operation followed an ISWAP attack on the base on Oct. 13.
According to the report, troops recovered two AK-47 rifles and a motorcycle allegedly abandoned by the terrorists during the attack.
It said the operations reflect ongoing military efforts to disrupt criminal activities, intercept terrorist logistics and protect communities across the affected areas. (NAN)
