In a daring operation on December 18, 2024, Nigerian troops in Taraba State apprehended four individuals suspected of being part of the notorious Ambazonian rebel group from Cameroon. The arrest has exposed a disturbing network of arms trafficking and criminal collaboration that threatens security in the region.
The four suspects, believed to be involved in the illegal trade of weapons, were tracked down to a hotel in the town of Takum, in the heart of Taraba State. The operation was carried out by the 6 Brigade of the Nigerian Army, following months of intelligence gathering.
Captain Oni Olubodunde, a spokesperson for the 6 Brigade, confirmed the arrest in a statement to SaharaReporters. He stated, “On December 18, acting on credible human intelligence, our troops tracked and arrested four individuals at a hotel in Takum, Taraba State.” According to Olubodunde, the suspects are members of the Ambazonian separatist movement, known for its violent campaign for independence in the English-speaking regions of Cameroon.
The rebels, Olubodunde explained, were involved in smuggling firearms into Nigeria in exchange for cocoa. “During initial interrogation, the suspects admitted to trading weapons with Nigerian criminals, with cocoa serving as the payment,” he said. This revelation has raised serious concerns over the growing links between separatist groups from neighbouring Cameroon and criminal networks within Nigeria, particularly in the northern and central regions.
The weapons were reportedly intended for use by local bandit groups, which have been wreaking havoc across the state of Taraba and other parts of Nigeria. These groups, which often engage in kidnapping, robbery, and other forms of violence, are believed to be heavily reliant on firearms supplied through these underground channels.
The Nigerian Army’s swift response underscores the country’s commitment to combating such threats. The four suspects were found to be in possession of mobile phones, which were immediately confiscated for further investigation. As of now, the individuals remain in custody, and further inquiries are underway to uncover more details about the scope of their operations.
This arrest comes at a time of heightened concern over the spread of arms across the West African region. The Ambazonian rebels, although primarily focused on their fight for independence from Cameroon, have reportedly become involved in a range of illegal activities, including the arms trade. By offering weapons to Nigerian bandits, they are not only fuelling instability in Nigeria but also further complicating efforts to secure the region.
The Nigerian Army has vowed to continue its crackdown on arms proliferation, which is a major contributor to the escalating violence in parts of the country. Olubodunde emphasized the importance of maintaining national security, stating, “We are committed to safeguarding lives and property while ensuring the security of critical national infrastructure.” The army spokesperson also called for continued collaboration between security agencies and the public. “We urge the public to provide timely and credible information to help us tackle these threats,” he said.
The arrest in Taraba is part of a broader effort by Nigerian authorities to combat arms trafficking and criminal syndicates. In a separate operation, the Nigerian Army intercepted a truck transporting vandalized pipeline materials in Wukari Local Government Area. The truck, which was carrying 19 stolen pipeline sections from the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL), was stopped following actionable intelligence. A joint effort with the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) led to the recovery of an additional 11 pieces of vandalized pipeline, bringing the total to 30.
These operations have drawn attention to the ongoing security challenges facing Nigeria, particularly in the areas of resource theft and insurgency. The involvement of external actors, such as the Ambazonian rebels, adds a new dimension to Nigeria’s fight against criminality and highlights the need for robust regional cooperation.
Local residents have expressed mixed reactions to the arrests. While some have praised the Nigerian Army for its decisive action, others remain concerned about the growing influence of external rebel groups and their ability to undermine security within the country. “We are relieved that these individuals have been apprehended, but we worry about the bigger picture – the continued flow of arms and criminals across our borders,” said one local community leader in Takum.
As the investigation continues, Nigerian authorities remain vigilant in their efforts to dismantle the complex network of arms dealers, bandits, and insurgents operating across the region. The arrest of these four Cameroonian rebels is a significant step, but it is clear that much more work remains to be done to ensure lasting peace and stability in the region.
