The Nigerian Army has arrested 12 individuals linked to terrorist activities in Kwara State. The suspects are believed to be part of a breakaway faction of Boko Haram, known as Mahmuda, which has been terrorizing residents in border communities near the Kanji Lake National Park. The arrests are part of a major military operation aimed at ridding the region of criminal elements.
The group, which has been exploiting and terrorizing people in the Baruten and Kaiama local government areas of Kwara State, as well as the Borgu Local Government Area of Niger State, was responsible for a range of criminal activities. These included abductions, killings, and extortion. The Army’s counterinsurgency operation, code-named “Park Strike Four,” is targeting these criminals who have been hiding in the vast forest of the Kanji Lake region.
During a visit to the operation area, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the 2 Division, Major General Obinna Onubogu, confirmed that the 12 suspects were arrested in raids on the Kanji Lake National Park and surrounding border communities. Two of the suspects were identified as members of an armed bandit group, while the others are accused of being accomplices.
Speaking to reporters, General Onubogu explained that the goal of the operation was to eliminate the bandits and restore safety to the region. The military has successfully cleared over 90 kilometers of territory in the area and is steadily pushing the criminals out of their hideouts.
In addition to the arrests, the operation has seen progress in dislodging the terrorists, boosting the morale of local communities. During his visit, the GOC met with the Emir of Kaiama, Alhaji Muazu Sheu Omar, and the Head of Kemanji Community, Aliyu Siki-Muhammed, to encourage residents and raise their confidence in the ongoing military efforts.
The Chief of Army Staff, Lt. General Olufemi Oluyede, had ordered the troops to complete the operation within a month, ensuring that the insurgents are rooted out of the area. The Army’s continued presence in the border communities of Kwara and Niger States signals a strong commitment to restoring peace and order in the region.
