Troops Regain Communities From Terrorists, Smash Cattle Rustling Gang

In a series of successful operations, Nigerian Army troops deployed for counter-terrorism counter-insurgency operations in the North East and North Central have demonstrated their unwavering commitment to safeguarding the lives and property of citizens and maintaining peace and security in the regions.

On Thursday, 18 April 2024, troops responding to a distress call, swiftly foiled a kidnap attempt on Mr Musa Arewa by three armed kidnappers in Lankaviri community in Karim Lamido Local Government Area of Taraba State. The kidnappers, having rigorously tortured their victim, were intercepted by the troops, as they attempted to smuggle him into a nearby bush. The suspected kidnappers were arrested, and three locally fabricated guns were recovered from them.

In another jointly coordinated effort with hunters and other security agencies, the troops conducted a fighting patrol to clear communities infiltrated by terrorists. During the clearance operation, troops neutralized a notorious terrorist, identified as Gambo Kachallah, who has been terrorizing the communities. The affected communities include Garau, Paskere, Tella, Jukun, Farin Ruwa, Mashingi, Jeb Jeb, and Rafin Kada Villages in Karim Lamido Local Government of Taraba State.

In a separate operation, troops successfully apprehended a notorious syndicate specialized in cattle rustling in Plateau State. Acting on credible intelligence, the troops conducted a sting operation targeting the terrorists’ enclave in Mangu Village, Mangu Local Government Area of Plateau State. The operation culminated in a decisive fire engagement with the terrorists, resulting in their arrest and the recovery of illicit arms.

The arrested suspects, identified as Peter Sale, Enoch Luka, and Hosaana Philibus, are believed to be key members of the cattle rustling syndicate. Additionally, the troops recovered one fabricated rifle, one fabricated pistol, 7 rounds of 7.62mm Special ammunition, a motorbike and 2 phones from the suspects.

The Nigerian Army remains resolute in its commitment to maintaining peace and security in the regions.