Troops of the Joint Task Force (JTF) Operation Savannah Shield (OPSS) have arrested five suspected bandit and terrorist informants in separate operations across Niger State, recovering communication devices, cash and other items believed to be linked to criminal activities.
The arrests were made during ongoing security operations aimed at dismantling criminal networks operating within the Joint Operations Area.
In the first operation, troops on a routine fighting patrol along the Doro axis in Wawa, Borgu Local Government Area, apprehended three suspected informants on June 6, 2026. Preliminary investigations indicated that the suspects were associated with a bandit group operating in Duru, located along the fringes of the Kainji Lake National Park.
Items recovered from the suspects included two Tecno keypad phones, an MP3 device containing recorded propaganda and inciting messages, and a cash sum of N113,400. Security sources disclosed that the audio recordings contained claims relating to the abduction of an individual in Kaduna State and the alleged collection of a N60 million ransom.
The suspects and recovered exhibits are currently in custody while investigations continue. Troops are also pursuing other members of the criminal network.
In a related development, troops of the 221 Battalion under Operation Savannah Shield arrested two additional suspected informants during a routine patrol along the perimeter fence of a military cantonment.
Initial investigations revealed that the suspects had allegedly been deployed to conduct reconnaissance and gather intelligence on the military facility. Further examination of one suspect’s mobile phone reportedly uncovered a photograph of a beheaded individual dated May 2, 2026, raising concerns about possible links to terrorist activities.
Recovered items from the suspects included an Android mobile phone, a Tecno keypad phone, a motorcycle and N86,100 in cash. The suspects remain in military custody pending further investigation.
The Joint Task Force said the successful operations reflect its determination to dismantle criminal and terrorist support networks across the North-Central region. It reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining pressure on criminal elements and denying them freedom of operation in order to enhance security and stability across the area.
