Troops of the Joint Task Force under Operation Hadin Kai in the North-East have arrested five suspected kidnappers and recovered two AK-47 rifles in Magumeri Local Government Area of Borno State.

The Nigerian Army disclosed this in a statement on Friday, adding that the operation also led to the recovery of magazines and ammunition.

“Acting on credible intelligence, troops conducted a well-coordinated operation along a known criminal corridor in Magumeri, leading to the arrest of five suspected members of a kidnapping syndicate responsible for terrorising innocent civilians within the area. 

“During the operation, troops recovered two AK-47 rifles, magazines and ammunition, thereby disrupting the criminal network’s operational capability and denying the suspects the means to perpetrate further acts of violence,” the statement read.

The army noted that preliminary investigations indicated that the suspects were linked to kidnapping and other criminal activities in parts of Borno State.

“The arrested individuals are currently in custody and are assisting security agencies with further investigations aimed at apprehending other members of the syndicate and dismantling their support networks,” it added.

The Nigerian Army stated that it remained committed to ensuring lasting peace, security and stability across the country.