Taraba State – In a major security operation, the Nigerian Army’s 6 Brigade has arrested 12 suspected kidnappers in Taraba State, dealing a severe blow to local kidnapping operations. The suspects, apprehended on November 9 in Mbhakyir village near Agu Center in Takum Local Government Area, were reportedly found with 14 motorcycles, a locally-made pistol, and two bags of Indian hemp, all confiscated by the troops.
The arrest was achieved through a coordinated effort with Sector 3 of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS), according to Captain Oni Olubodunde, Acting Assistant Director of Army Public Relations. In a statement released on Tuesday, he detailed the events leading to the capture, crediting the collaboration and swift response of military forces.
“The operation took place on November 9, with the suspects apprehended at a local drinking spot in Mbhakyir village, near Agu Center in Takum Local Government Area,” Captain Olubodunde said. The operation was prompted by a distress call from residents of Chachanji village, who reported that 10 armed men had abducted two people on motorcycles on November 7.
During the raid, the Nigerian Army seized 14 motorcycles, a locally crafted pistol, and two bags of Indian hemp. According to the statement, the suspects attempted to flee into nearby bushes upon encountering the army’s superior firepower, abandoning their weapons and supplies in the process.
“Acting immediately, troops launched a rapid response operation aimed at rescuing the victims and intercepting the kidnappers,” Olubodunde noted. The well-coordinated response prevented further criminal activity and disrupted the kidnappers’ operations.
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The arrested suspects reportedly confessed to their involvement in the recent kidnappings, identifying Veior John Gata as their leader. Gata, a notorious criminal wanted for numerous crimes across southern Taraba and Benue State, had allegedly been with them at Agu Center on November 5, planning additional attacks, including the killing of two individuals.
The arrests underscore ongoing security concerns in Taraba State, where kidnapping and banditry have disrupted local communities. The swift response by the Nigerian Army is a positive sign of efforts to curb criminal activities in the region, but locals continue to call for increased security and more frequent patrols to protect against future incidents.
The Trumpet will continue to provide updates on this story and monitor the security situation in Taraba and other regions affected by similar issues.
