In Taraba State, Northeast Nigeria, four women were captured among 23 bandits reportedly harboured by a local chief.
The chief allegedly received N1.5 million and provided a hideout for the terrorists.
Nigerian Army troops also killed one of the terrorists and recovered a cache of firearms, including four AK-47 rifles.
The incident happened at the weekend, at Angwan-Bala, in the Karim Lamido Local Government Area of the state, according to the military.
The spokesperson for the 6 Brigade of the Nigerian Army in Jalingo, Captain Oni Olubodunde, who disclosed this to SaharaReporters, noted that a local chief had harboured the terrorists in exchange of N1.5 million.
Olubodunde added that the terrorists relocated from Plateau State and were received and settled by the village head of Amar, Karim Lamido.
He said, “Acting on credible intelligence regarding the movement of suspected bandits, the gallant troops conducted a fighting patrol to the identified hideout.
“On sighting the patrol team, the bandits opened fire, prompting an immediate and overwhelming response from the troops. In the ensuing firefight, one bandit was neutralized, while 23 others including 19 males and 4 females surrendered without further resistance.”
“A comprehensive search of the camp led to the recovery of a significant cache of arms and ammunition, including, 4 AK-47 rifles, 5 AK-47 rifle magazines, 80 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, 1 English made pistol, 2 locally made guns, 28 cutlasses, 16 motorcycles, 48 daggers and jack knives,” he said.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the bandits, originally from Plateau State, had paid a local chief in Amar village the sum of ₦1,500,000 to acquire and establish their camp in the area.”
Commenting on the operation, the Commander of 6 Brigade Nigerian Army, Brigadier General Kingsley Chidiebere Uwa, reaffirmed the Brigade’s unwavering commitment to the security and stability of Taraba State and its environs.
“This operation is a testament to our resolve to eliminating criminal elements, restoring lasting peace, and ensuring that Taraba State does not become a safe haven for terrorists. We will continue to work tirelessly with relevant stakeholders to sustain the fight against insecurity,” Uwa said.