In a decisive operation to combat crime, troops from the 6 Brigade of the Nigerian Army and Sector 3 of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) successfully dismantled a notorious kidnapping gang in Taraba State. This gang had been terrorizing the residents of Jalingo and Lau Local Government Areas.

The operation began on October 22, 2024, when intelligence reports led to the arrest of two suspects, Ali Idi and Haruna Umar, at a hotel in the Mayo Dassa area of Jalingo. A search of their mobile phones uncovered crucial evidence, including a photograph of Haruna holding an AK-47 rifle, highlighting their involvement in criminal activities.

Further investigations revealed that the gang’s hideout was located at Kona Mountain in Jalingo LGA. Acting on this information, the troops launched a follow-up operation on October 23, 2024, where they apprehended the gang leader, Dahiru Idi, also known as “Yellow.” During interrogation, Dahiru confessed to the recent kidnapping of three individuals, from whom they extorted a ransom of 6 million Naira for their release.

Dahiru also disclosed that two AK-47 rifles used in their operations had been moved to another location by another suspect, Yakubu Dogo, in preparation for future crimes.

The troops recovered several items from the suspects, including rings, a SIM card, a mobile phone, illegal drugs, and charms.

Brigadier General Kingsley Chidiebere Uwa, the commander of the 6 Brigade, expressed gratitude to the people of Taraba State for their continued support. He emphasized that the military is committed to the fight against terrorism and will take every necessary action to ensure the safety and protection of lives and property in Taraba State and throughout Nigeria. He urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to law enforcement agencies.