Troops of the Joint Task Force (North East) Operation Hadin Kai have arrested five suspected kidnappers and recovered weapons during a targeted operation in Magumeri Local Government Area of Borno State.
The operation forms part of ongoing efforts by the military to combat terrorism, kidnapping and other forms of criminality across the North-East region.
According to a statement shared on the Nigerian Army’s Facebook on Friday, the suspects were apprehended following actionable intelligence that led troops to a known criminal corridor within Magumeri, where members of a kidnapping syndicate were believed to be operating.
The troops subsequently conducted a coordinated operation that resulted in the arrest of five suspected members of the group.
It was gathered that security personnel recovered two AK-47 rifles, magazines and ammunition believed to have been used by the suspects in carrying out criminal activities.
The military said the seizure of the weapons has significantly disrupted the operational capability of the suspected syndicate and prevented further attacks on residents in the area.
Preliminary investigations reportedly indicate that the suspects are linked to kidnapping and other criminal activities in parts of Borno State.
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The arrested individuals are currently in military custody and are assisting investigators with information aimed at identifying and apprehending other members of the network.
Security agencies are also working to uncover and dismantle support structures believed to be aiding the activities of the criminal group.
The military described the operation as another major step in ongoing efforts to secure communities and protect residents from criminal elements operating within the region.
Operation Hadin Kai reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining offensive operations against terrorists, kidnappers and other threats to national security.
The military also assured residents that troops would continue intelligence-driven operations aimed at restoring lasting peace, security and stability across Borno State and the wider North-East region.