Troops arrest 34 suspects for murder, kidnapping, others

Troops of Operation Safe Haven on Operation Hakorin Damisa IV have successfully apprehended a total of 34 persons suspected of various criminal activities, including murder, kidnapping, illicit arms trade, farm destruction, cattle rustling, theft and illegal drug possession.

These arrests took place between October 22, 29 2023, across Kaduna, Plateau, and Bauchi States.

Among those taken into custody, were two suspects, identified as Tanko Abubakar and Umar Mohammed, who were apprehended for their alleged involvement in the murder of Mrs Ruth in Mai Jankai village, in the Barkin Ladi Local Government Area of Plateau State.

This was made known via a statement released on the Nigerian Army’s X account on Tuesday.

The statement in part reads, “Within the week, a total of 34 suspects were arrested out of which were 7 suspected kidnappers, 4 suspected gunrunners, 3 in connection with attacks on villages, 3 cattle rustlers and 2 suspects arrested for illicit drugs peddling.

“Also, 3 victims were rescued from kidnappers, 4 attacks on vulnerable communities were deterred and 36 distress calls were promptly responded to.

Major General AE Abubakar, the Commander of Operation SAFE HAVEN, expressed gratitude for the cooperation and contributions of the local communities in Plateau, Southern Kaduna, and Bauchi States in the ongoing efforts to eliminate criminal elements from the region.

He further assured that all suspects currently in custody will be prosecuted in accordance with the law once the investigations are concluded.