By Sylvanus Viashima, Jalingo
JALINGO – Troops of the 6 Brigade Jalingo have arrested Eight persons suspected to be members of the dreaded Boko Haram terrorist organisation in Ardo Kola local government area of Taraba State.
Captain Olubodunde Oni, Acting Assistant Director, 6 Brigade Army Public Relations, disclosed this in a statement issued on Monday night in Jalingo.
Oni said that Two other female suspects believed to be informants to kidnappers were also arrested and are currently facing interrogation.
He noted that initial investigation shows that the Boko Haram suspects were preparing to start launching attacks on Jalingo, the State capital using Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs).
“In a series of intelligence driven operations, troops of 6 Brigade Nigerian Army/ Sector 3 Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) have arrested 10 suspects, comprising 8 Boko Haram terrorists (BHT) and 2 high-profile kidnapper informants, in a significant effort to enhance the security of Taraba State.
“Acting swiftly on reliable intelligence, troops of the Brigade on 29 September 2024 conducted a raid on the residence of one of the terrorists leader Tukura Abdul-Kareem in Sunkani Ward of Ardo-Kola Local Government Area. This operation resulted in the arrest of Abdul-Kareem and 7 additional suspects who had traveled from various states to join the terror cell. Investigation revealed that the 8 Boko Haram Terrorists were planning to establish a sleeper cell within Taraba State, with the intention of launching Improvised Explosive Device (IED) attacks on innocent individuals and critical facilities within the state.
“Abdul -Kareem also confessed to have joined the BHT with his brother Adamu Abdul -Kareem for a long period of time who is still hibernating in the bush with the terrorists at an unknown area. Items recovered from the suspects include 9 mobile phones, Identity Cards, wraps of controlled items suspected to be Marijuana and other hard drugs.
“In a separate operation, on 30 September 2024, troops of 6 Brigade deployed at Chachanji village in Takum LGA arrested 2 informants linked to high-profile kidnapping syndicates. These individuals are known to have provided vital information to kidnappers who have been aiding a wanted notorious criminal known as Anyogo and his gang with information on the activities of troops within the area and also responsible for identifying businessmen with money to be robbed or kidnapped for ransom. The 2 suspects namely Patience Avadoo Tersoo and Joy Nguemu Emmanuel are believed to be Anyogo’s Wife and sister. Items recovered from the suspects include 1 Mobile phone, 1 Super Core Motorcycle and a calabash.
“The Commander 6 Brigade, Brigadier General Kingsley Chidiebere Uwa while commenting on the successful operations, commended the troops of 6 Brigade for their exceptional dedication and professionalism in carrying out these successful operations. He noted that the swift action of troops has disrupted a dangerous terror plot and safeguarded innocent lives. General Uwa also extends his gratitude to the good citizens of Taraba State for their continued vigilance and cooperation. He added that the trust and support are crucial in the Brigade’s ongoing efforts to maintain peace and security within the state. “Together, we will continue to ensure a safer and more secure Taraba and Nigeria at large” the statement reads in part.
