By Taibat Ummi Yakubu
Troops of the Nigerian Army have arrested 16 suspected criminals, including terrorists, kidnappers and cattle rustlers, while recovering arms, ammunition, rustled cattle and large quantities of illegally refined petroleum products in coordinated operations across the country.
According to an operational report released on Tuesday, the military operations conducted within the last 24 hours resulted in the arrest of nine suspected terrorists, seven suspected kidnappers, and the recovery of eight rustled cattle, 10 mobile phones and about 2,350 litres of suspected illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil (AGO).
In Katsina State, troops of Operation Fansan Yamma apprehended two suspected terrorists during a stop-and-search operation along the Dutsinma–Kankara–Turare Road in Dutsinma Local Government Area.
Preliminary investigations indicated that the suspects were linked to terrorist groups operating in Katsina and Zamfara states. They were reportedly on their way to carry out a cattle-rustling operation before they were intercepted by the troops.
Items recovered from the suspects included two mobile phones and N28,500 in cash.
In Edo State, troops of the 322 Artillery Regiment arrested five suspected kidnappers in Emaudo, Esan West Local Government Area, following actionable intelligence.
The suspects reportedly confessed to participating in kidnapping activities for more than two years. Troops recovered eight mobile phones during the operation.
Similarly, in Kogi State, troops intercepted eight rustled cattle along the Jamata–Atsawa Road in Lokoja Local Government Area and arrested a suspected cattle rustler.
The report stated that members of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association identified the animals as cattle stolen from the Adankolo area. The recovered livestock were subsequently returned to their rightful owners.
In Delta State, troops of the 3 Battalion arrested two suspected armed robbers during a routine patrol in Udu Local Government Area.
The suspects sustained injuries after allegedly attempting to attack the troops while operating an illegal roadblock. They were later handed over to the police for further investigation.
Meanwhile, troops intensified anti-illegal bunkering operations in the Niger Delta region, recovering approximately 1,150 litres of suspected illegally refined AGO in Bayelsa State and another 1,200 litres in Akwa Ibom State.
The military said the recovered petroleum products and the vehicles used for their transportation were handled in accordance with established operational procedures.
The report reaffirmed the commitment of the Nigerian Army to sustaining pressure on terrorists, kidnappers, armed robbers and other criminal elements threatening peace and security across the country.
