Two suspected terrorists have been arrested by Nigerian Army troops during a night patrol in Kaura Namoda Local Government Area of Zamfara State.
The suspects were apprehended by troops of the 1 Brigade Nigerian Army, operating from the Forward Operating Base (FOB) Kaura Namoda, during an operation aimed at disrupting the activities of criminal elements in the area.
According to a statement by the Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, 1 Brigade Nigerian Army Gusau, Yusuf Mohammed, the operation was conducted in the early hours of Tuesday.
The Army said the suspects, who are reportedly from Ilela Village in Maradun Local Government Area of the state, were intercepted at about 1:50 a.m. during a fighting patrol.
Weapons, Ammunition Recovered
Several weapons and other items were recovered from the suspects following their arrest.
The recovered items include an AK-47 rifle, a locally fabricated Dane gun, two rifle magazines, 55 rounds of 7.62mm ammunition and 18 cartridges for the Dane gun.
Troops also recovered a motorcycle, two Baofeng radio sets, a mobile phone, two MP3 players, a camouflage vest, two jungle hats, a handbag and N44,500 in cash.
Phone Contains Suspected Intelligence Materials
The Army said a preliminary examination of one of the suspects’ mobile phones uncovered photographs and videos considered potentially incriminating and useful for intelligence purposes.
The contents of the device are currently being examined by relevant authorities to determine their significance and establish whether the suspects have links to terrorist activities in the area.
The Army described the operation as another setback for criminal elements operating in Zamfara, noting that the arrests and recovery of weapons were achieved through intelligence-led operations and sustained patrols.
Army Vows To Sustain Operations
The Acting Commander of 1 Brigade, Colonel J. Umaru, commended the troops for their vigilance, courage and professionalism.
He urged personnel to maintain the momentum of offensive operations and continue efforts to prevent terrorists and other criminal groups from operating freely within the brigade’s area of responsibility.
The Army also reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and property while supporting efforts to restore lasting peace and security across Zamfara State.
