Troops nab suspected militia linked to herdsman’s killing

Troops of the 3 Division, Nigerian Army, and Operation Safe Haven have arrested a suspected militia member believed to be involved in the killing of a herdsman and the rustling of over a thousand cattle in Plateau State.

The arrest was made during a clearance operation in Hura village, Bassa Local Government Area, in the early hours of Friday, May 30, following actionable intelligence, according to a report by counter-insurgency expert Zagazola Makama.

Military authorities confirmed that the operation led to the recovery of an AK-47 rifle, a magazine, 26 rounds of 5.56mm ammunition, N2,500 in cash, and items suspected to be charms.

Preliminary investigations indicate that the suspect is part of a criminal syndicate linked to the killing of a herder and the theft of 1,250 cows in Tomborong village, Riyom LGA, on May 27.

“The suspect is currently in custody and cooperating with investigators on the identities and locations of other members of the syndicate and their cache of weapons,” a military source said.

Security forces say efforts have been intensified to locate and apprehend other members of the gang responsible for the recent spate of criminal activities in the area.