Troops of Joint Task Force North East, Operation HADIN KAI, have arrested five suspected members of a kidnapping gang and recovered two AK-47 rifles during a security operation in Magumeri Local Government Area of Borno State.
The operation, conducted along a route believed to be frequently used by criminal elements, was carried out following credible intelligence received by the troops, according to a statement by the spokesman of Operation HADIN KAI, Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba.
He said the suspects were apprehended as troops intensified efforts to combat kidnapping, banditry and other violent crimes threatening communities in parts of the state.
During the operation, security personnel recovered two AK-47 rifles, magazines and ammunition allegedly linked to the activities of the suspects.
Preliminary investigations indicate that the arrested individuals are suspected members of a kidnapping syndicate believed to be responsible for a series of criminal operations within the area and neighbouring communities.
Lieutenant Colonel Uba disclosed that the suspects are currently in military custody and are assisting investigators with useful information that could lead to the arrest of other members of the criminal network.
He noted that the operation forms part of ongoing efforts by Operation HADIN KAI to dismantle criminal and terrorist networks operating across the North-East region.
The spokesman reaffirmed the military’s commitment to sustaining offensive operations against kidnappers, terrorists and other armed groups, assuring residents that troops would continue to pursue all threats to peace and security in the region.
He also urged members of the public to continue providing timely and credible information to security agencies to support ongoing operations aimed at safeguarding lives and property.
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