By Justin Tyopuusu
Troops from the 6 Brigade of the Nigerian Army in Jalingo, Taraba State, successfully dismantled a kidnap syndicate on Monday, arresting three suspects in a focused operation aimed at reducing criminal activities in the region.
Captain Olubodunde Oni, Acting Assistant Director of 6 Brigade Army Public Relations, announced the operation, which was part of Sector 3’s efforts under Operation Whirl Stroke. The operation targeted a notorious group that had been terrorizing the Jalingo and Lau Local Government Areas.
On October 22, 2024, acting on credible intelligence, troops apprehended two suspects, Ali Idi and Haruna Umar, during a raid at a hotel in the Mayo Dassa area. A subsequent search of their mobile phones revealed incriminating evidence, including a photograph of Haruna brandishing an AK-47 rifle alongside an unidentified accomplice.
Further investigation led the troops to the gang’s main hideout in Kona Mountain, prompting a follow-up operation on October 23. This operation resulted in the capture of the gang leader, Dahiru Idi, also known as “Yellow.”
During interrogation, Dahiru admitted to participating in a recent kidnapping operation that involved three victims from whom the gang extorted a ransom of 6 million Naira. He also disclosed that their AK-47 rifles had been moved by an associate, Yakubu Dogo, in preparation for another crime.
Items seized from the suspects included three rings, an Airtel SIM card, an Itel phone, Indian hemp, and various charms.
Brigadier General Kingsley Uwa, Commander of the 6 Brigade, praised the people of Taraba State for their support and reiterated the military’s dedication to combating terrorism. “The safety of lives and property remains our top priority. We will continue to work relentlessly to protect the people of Taraba and all Nigerians,” he stated, encouraging the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the authorities.