The Nigerian Army has made progress in the fight against terrorism by arresting 12 people suspected of being involved in criminal activities in Kwara State.

According to the army, the arrested suspects belong to a breakaway faction of the Boko Haram terrorist group, known as Mahmuda.

This group was reportedly operating from Kanji Lake National Park. They had been accused of attacking and taking advantage of people in nearby border communities such as Baruten and Kaiama in Kwara State and Borgu in Niger State.

Major General Obinna Onubogu, who is the head of the Nigerian Army’s 2 Division, confirmed this development after visiting some army camps in Kaiama and Baruten.

He said the suspects were caught in different places during military raids carried out in Kanji Lake National Park and nearby communities.

Two of the arrested individuals were confirmed as members of the terrorist group, while the others are suspected of helping them.

General Onubogu also spoke about the ongoing operation called ‘Park Strike Four.’ The goal is to remove bandits and terrorists from Kanji Lake National Park and make the area safe again.

He explained that the troops have covered a distance of 90 kilometers from Kemanji into the forest, where the army has now set up a strong base.

Thanks to their efforts, the troops have been able to drive away the terrorists and other criminals hiding in the area.

During his visit, General Onubogu met with the Emir of Kaiama, Alhaji Muazu Sheu Omar, and the head of the Kemanji community, Aliyu Siki-Muhammed, to discuss the progress and seek support from local leaders.

It is important to remember that the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. General Olufemi Oluyede, had earlier given the troops a one-month deadline to clear the area of all bandits. This latest success shows that they are making strong progress toward that goal.