Rita Odafe
Military forces from the 6 Brigade of the Nigerian Army, part of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS), successfully dismantled a kidnapping ring that had been spreading fear across Jalingo and Lau Local Government Areas in Taraba State.
The operation that led to the arrests of Ali Idi and Haruna Umar took place on October 22, 2024, at their hideout in a local hotel in Mayo Dassa.
Investigators discovered damaging evidence on their mobile devices, including a picture of Haruna with an AK-47 rifle next to an unidentified accomplice.
Further inquiries revealed that the gang was operating from a hideout in Kona Mountain, Jalingo LGA, where other members were thought to be present.
Acting quickly on this information, troops launched a follow-up operation in Kona Mountain on October 23, 2024, capturing the gang leader, Dahiru Idi, also known as “Yellow.”
Dahiru admitted to the recent abduction of three people, from whom they extorted a ransom of 6 million Naira before releasing them.
He further stated that two AK-47 rifles used by the gang had been moved by his associate Yakubu Dogo in preparation for a new operation.
Items seized from the suspects included three rings, an Airtel SIM card, an itel mobile phone, cannabis, and charms.
Brigadier General Kingsley Chidiebere Uwa, commander of the 6 Brigade, expressed his gratitude to the residents of Taraba for their unwavering support.
He emphasized that combating terrorism is a principal focus for the military, and they are dedicated to safeguarding the lives and property of Taraba’s residents and all Nigerians.
He encouraged the public to stay alert and report any suspicious behavior to the appropriate law enforcement bodies.
