Troops of the Nigerian Army, in separate operations in Nasarawa and Taraba states, have arrested three suspected kidnappers and recovered cash and mobile phones believed to be linked to their activities.

In Nasarawa State, troops of Sector 2, Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS), working alongside operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS), arrested a suspected kidnapper at Akwaba in Nasarawa Eggon Local Government Area.

Security sources said the arrest was made at about 2:30 p.m. on October 29, 2026, during a joint security operation. The troops reportedly recovered ₦200,000 from the suspect, who was subsequently handed over to the DSS alongside the recovered money for further investigation.

In a separate operation in Taraba State, troops of 114 Battalion (Rear), in collaboration with a Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA) composite team, arrested two suspected accomplices of a kidnapping syndicate in Lau Local Government Area.

The operation was conducted at about 6:30 a.m. on October 27, following intelligence on the activities of the suspected syndicate and the earlier arrest of one Mr Goma Gakamu on October 25.

The two suspects were identified as Akila and Nelly. Preliminary investigations reportedly indicated that Akila was allegedly involved in the abduction of victims, while Nelly was suspected of leasing weapons to the syndicate for its operations.

Troops recovered ₦400,000 and two mobile phones from the suspects, who remain in military custody alongside the recovered items for further investigation and necessary action.

The arrests form part of ongoing joint security efforts to dismantle kidnapping networks and disrupt their operational and logistical support structures across the affected states. (Zagazola)