In a strategic operation based on intelligence, troops from the 6 Brigade of the Nigerian Army, in collaboration with Sector 3 of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS), successfully dismantled a kidnapping syndicate that has been terrorizing Jalingo and Lau Local Government Areas in Taraba State.
The breakthrough began on October 22, 2024, when two suspects, Ali Idi and Haruna Umar, were arrested during a raid at a hotel in the Mayo Dassa area of Jalingo. The duo, hiding at the location, was found with incriminating evidence on their phones, including photos of Haruna posing with an AK-47 rifle alongside another individual at an undisclosed location.
Further investigations led to the identification of the gang’s hideout at Kona Mountain in Jalingo. Acting swiftly, the troops launched a follow-up operation on October 23, 2024, resulting in the capture of the gang leader, Dahiru Idi, also known as “Yellow.” During interrogation, Dahiru confessed to being involved in the kidnapping of three individuals, for which the gang extorted 6 million Naira in ransom before releasing the victims.
Dahiru also revealed that the two AK-47 rifles used in their criminal operations had been moved by another gang member, Yakubu Dogo, in preparation for future attacks.
During the operation, troops recovered various items from the suspects, including three rings, an Airtel SIM card, an Itel phone, Indian hemp, and charms.
Brigadier General Kingsley Chidiebere Uwa, Commander of the 6 Brigade, expressed his gratitude to the people of Taraba State for their ongoing support. He reiterated the military’s commitment to combating terrorism and assured residents that every effort would be made to protect lives and property.
The general public was encouraged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to law enforcement agencies to maintain peace and security across the region.
