Troops from the 6 Brigade Nigerian Army and Sector 3 Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) have apprehended 10 suspects, including eight Boko Haram terrorists and two informants linked to a high-profile kidnapping syndicate, in Taraba State.

Acting on credible intelligence, the troops raided the residence of terrorist leader Tukura Abdul-Kareem in the Sunkani Ward of Ardo-Kola Local Government Area on September 29. This operation resulted in the arrest of Abdul-Kareem and seven other suspects who had traveled from various states to join the terror cell.

This information was revealed in a statement on Tuesday by Captain Olubodunde Oni, the Acting Assistant Director of 6 Brigade Army Public Relations.

The investigation uncovered plans by the terrorists to establish a sleeper cell in Taraba State to carry out attacks using Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) on innocent civilians and critical facilities.

Abdul-Kareem admitted that he and his brother, Adamu Abdul-Kareem, have been members of Boko Haram for a long time, with Adamu still hiding in an undisclosed location with other terrorists.

Items recovered during the raid include nine mobile phones, identification cards, and wraps of controlled substances suspected to be marijuana and other illicit drugs.

In a separate operation on September 30, troops stationed in Chachanji village, Takum Local Government Area, arrested two informants linked to a notorious kidnapping syndicate. These informants had provided valuable information to kidnappers, including details on the movements of troops and identifying wealthy businessmen for robbery or abduction.

The suspects, Patience Avadoo Tersoo and Joy Nguemu Emmanuel, are believed to be the wife and sister of the wanted criminal Anyogo.

Recovered items include a mobile phone, a Super Core motorcycle, and a calabash.

Brigadier General Kingsley Chidiebere Uwa, Commander of the 6 Brigade, praised the troops for their exceptional dedication and professionalism in executing these successful operations.

He highlighted that the swift actions of the troops had effectively disrupted a dangerous terror plot and protected innocent lives.

General Uwa also expressed his appreciation to the citizens of Taraba State for their vigilance and cooperation. He emphasized that trust and community support are vital to the Brigade’s ongoing efforts to uphold peace and security within the state.

“Together, we will continue to ensure a safer and more secure Taraba and Nigeria at large,” he said.