The Nigerian Army has apprehended 12 suspected kidnappers and recovered 14 motorcycles, and a locally fabricated pistol in their operations within Taraba State.
The troops of the 6 Brigade Nigerian Army/Sector 3 Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) who carried out the operation also recovered 14 motorcycles, a locally fabricated pistol, and two bags of Indian hemp.
In a statement signed by the Acting Assistant Director, 6 Brigade Army Public Relations, Captain Olubodunde Oni, the Army recalled how two abducted residents of Chachanji village were rescued on November 7.
“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 24 arrested 12 suspects and seized 14 motorcycles at a local drinking joint in Mbhakyir village close to Agu Center.
“During an intensive investigation, the arrested suspects admitted to being part of the kidnapping operation and identified their leader as Veior John Gata, a notorious terrorist who has been on the wanted list of security agencies for orchestrating criminal activities in parts of southern Taraba and Benue states.”
The Army noted that the suspects further confessed that Veior was with them at Agu centre on November 5, before the killing of two locals and abduction of two individuals on November 6 and 7 respectively, at Chachanji general area.
The suspect added that Veior was displeased with the locals in Chachanji. Hence, wanted to ensure that 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. 6 Brigade Nigerian Army remains committed to ensuring the safety and security of all communities within its area of operation,” the statement said.