Army Arrests 12 Suspected Terrorists in Kwara, Niger Border Raid
At least 12 suspected terrorists linked to a Boko Haram splinter group, known as the Mahmuda faction, have been arrested by the Nigerian Army in a major counter-insurgency operation within and around the Kanji Lake National Park, straddling parts of Kwara and Niger States.
The suspects were nabbed during a military raid targeting hideouts of the group, which has reportedly terrorised residents of border communities in Baruten and Kaiama Local Government Areas of Kwara, as well as Borgu Local Government Area in Niger State.
The General Officer Commanding (GOC) 2 Division of the Nigerian Army, Major General Obinna Onubogu, who visited the troops stationed in Kaiama and Baruten over the weekend, confirmed the arrest while briefing journalists.
“Out of the twelve suspects picked up, two are confirmed members of the armed group, while others are believed to be collaborators aiding their activities,” he said.
The operation, code-named Park Strike Four, is focused on flushing out criminal elements from the Kanji Lake National Park and securing the surrounding communities.
“We have combed over 90 kilometres of the forest, from Kemanji into the heart of Kanji. Our troops are resolute and have dislodged the bandits from their hideouts,” the GOC stated.
During the visit, General Onubogu met with the Emir of Kaiama, Alhaji Muazu Sheu Omar, and the head of Kemanji community, Aliyu Siki-Muhammed.
He assured them of the army’s commitment to restoring peace in the area, saying, “We are not relenting. This mission is to reclaim our land from criminals and restore hope to the people.”
The army’s action follows a one-month directive issued by the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, instructing troops to clear the forest of all terrorist and bandit activity.
Residents in the affected communities, long troubled by violent attacks and exploitation, have welcomed the military presence, expressing hope for sustained peace and safety.
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