A suspected kidnapper was apprehended while praying inside a mosque. The arrest happened on August 18, 2024, in Takum town, where the man, identified as David Musa, was taken into custody during the Assar prayer at Takum Central Mosque.
Local resident Dauda Mai Dawa confirmed the arrest, stating that Musa was detained while engaged in religious activities. This arrest was part of a larger operation that same day, which led to the capture of 13 additional suspects along the Takum-Maraban Baissa road.
The arrest of Musa is linked to broader efforts by security forces targeting criminal activities in the region.
According to Captain Oni Olubodunde, Assistant Director of Army Public Relations, the operation involved Troops 6 Brigade/Sector 3 of Operation WHIRL STROKE.
The troops, working in coordination with other security agencies, also apprehended the alleged mastermind behind the killing of Chief of Chanchangi Chiefdom and his son.
In further developments, the operation resulted in the capture of 15 other suspected kidnappers, alongside the recovery of various arms and ammunition.
Additionally, on August 20, 2024, troops conducted a separate raid in Wukari Local Government Area, where suspected gunrunners James Nuhu and Dan-Asabe Ango were arrested. During interrogation, these suspects admitted to their involvement in various crimes in Wukari and surrounding areas.
Captain Oni added that Ibrahim Philemon was identified as the key armourer for the criminal group, responsible for storing weapons and managing the proceeds from their illegal activities.
