TROOPS of the Joint Task Force North West, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, have arrested a suspected terrorist kingpin and two members of his alleged syndicate during separate operations across Kaduna State.
The military also apprehended a suspected ammunition courier and a suspected terrorist logistics supplier as part of ongoing efforts to disrupt criminal networks operating in the region.
According to the Joint Task Force, troops of Sector 1 carried out a clearance operation in the early hours of 9 September at Dabar Dabo, described as a known terrorist hideout in Kubau Local Government Area of Kaduna State. During the operation, troops reportedly arrested the suspected terrorist kingpin alongside two other members of his syndicate.
The suspects have since been taken into military custody, where they are expected to undergo further investigation to establish their alleged roles in terrorist activities and identify other members of the network.
In a separate operation conducted the same day, troops acting on credible intelligence reportedly intercepted a 50-year-old woman in Igabi Local Government Area who was allegedly transporting ammunition. The military said the suspect was found in possession of 300 rounds of ammunition, which were allegedly concealed inside a bag.
Preliminary investigation reportedly indicated that the woman had travelled from Zamfara State to Lafia, where she was allegedly expected to collect the ammunition before transporting it to terrorists operating in the Birnin Gwari area. The troops subsequently took the suspect into custody for further investigation into the source of the ammunition and the intended recipients.
Later on 9 September, troops working in collaboration with a community vigilante group also arrested another suspect in Birnin Gwari Local Government Area. The individual was allegedly involved in supplying logistics to terrorists operating in the area. According to the military, four communication devices allegedly used by terrorists were recovered from the suspect following an interrogation and subsequent search.
The latest arrests form part of the military’s broader efforts to dismantle terrorist networks in the North-West and prevent the movement of weapons, ammunition, communication equipment and other logistical supplies to criminal groups.
The Joint Task Force said intelligence-led operations would continue across the region as security forces intensify efforts to track down individuals facilitating terrorist activities.
The military also urged residents to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious movements, individuals or activities to security agencies. It said cooperation between security forces, local communities and vigilante groups remains essential in the fight against terrorism and other criminal activities across the North-West.
