Troops smash Taraba kidnap syndicate
Published By: Paul Dada
6 Brigade of the Nigerian Army says its troops have dismantled a kidnap syndicate in Jalingo, Taraba State.
They also arrested three suspects in a targeted operation to curb criminal activities in the state.
This was revealed in a statement by the Acting Assistant Director, 6 Brigade, Army Public Relations, Captain Olubodunde Oni.
He said two of the suspects first, Ali Idi and Haruna Umar were first arrested at a hotel in the Mayo Dassa area of Jalingo.
He said: “A search of their mobile phones uncovered incriminating evidence, including a photograph of Haruna holding an AK-47 rifle alongside an unidentified accomplice.
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“The investigation pointed to the gang’s primary hideout at Kona Mountain in Jalingo Local Government Area, where other members were reportedly stationed.
“Acting on this intelligence, troops launched a follow-up operation at Kona Mountain on October 23, resulting in the capture of the gang leader, Dahiru Idi, also known as “Yellow.”
“During interrogation, Dahiru confessed to a recent kidnapping operation involving three victims, from whom the gang had extorted a ransom of 6 million Naira. He also revealed that their AK-47 rifles had been relocated by an associate, Yakubu Dogo, in preparation for another operation.
“Seized items from the suspects included three rings, one Airtel SIM card, an Itel phone, Indian hemp, and various charms.