JUST-IN: Troops Arrest Suspected Kidnapper, Recover AK-47 In Damaturu

Troops of Operation HADIN KAI have arrested a suspected kidnapper and recovered an AK-47 rifle during a cordon-and-search operation in Damaturu Yobe state.

Security sources told Zagazola Makama that the operation was carried out at about 11:30 a.m. on March 12 by troops in collaboration with members of the Yobe state hunters groups.

The sources said the troops conducted the cordon-and-search operation at Sidiri Ngabarawa following credible intelligence on the presence of suspected criminal elements in the area.

During the operation, troops apprehended a suspected kidnapper identified as Ahmadu Malam, 30, a resident of Southern Ngabarawa.

Items recovered from the suspect included one AK-47 rifle with registration number HS3649 and an empty magazine.

Security sources said the suspect and the recovered weapon are currently in the custody of the 233 Battalion for preliminary investigation.

The sources added that efforts are ongoing to track and apprehend other members of the suspected kidnapping syndicate believed to be operating within the area.

According to military authorities, the operation forms part of ongoing security efforts under Operation Hadin Kai aimed at dismantling criminal and insurgent networks operating across the North-East.