Troops of the Joint Task Force North East, Operation Hadin Kai, have arrested five suspected kidnappers and recovered arms and ammunition during an operation in Magumeri Local Government Area of Borno State.
The Nigerian Army said the operation was carried out following intelligence reports on the activities of criminal elements operating along a known corridor in the area.
According to the statement, the troops conducted a coordinated operation that led to the arrest of the suspects, believed to be members of a kidnapping syndicate accused of terrorising residents.
Items recovered during the raid included two AK-47 rifles, magazines and ammunition. The Army said the seizure dealt a blow to the group’s activities and denied them the weapons needed to carry out further attacks.
The statement noted that preliminary investigations linked the suspects to kidnapping and other crimes in parts of Borno State.
It added that the arrested persons are in custody and are assisting security agencies in ongoing investigations aimed at tracking down other members of the syndicate and dismantling their support networks.
The Nigerian Army noted that the operation reflects its determination to protect lives and property while sustaining pressure on terrorists, kidnappers and other criminal groups threatening national security.
It reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring lasting peace, security and stability across the country.