Nigerian Army Arrests Notorious Kidnapper’s Informant and Girlfriend in Taraba and Benue

Nigerian Army Cracks Down on Kidnapping Syndicate: Informant and Girlfriend of Notorious Kidnapper Arrested.

In a significant blow to kidnapping operations in Taraba and Benue states, troops of the Nigerian Army have apprehended a suspected informant and girlfriend of a notorious kidnapper. Grace Markus, 25, was arrested on September 6 in Sondi village, Wukari Local Government Area of Taraba State, following actionable intelligence.

Markus is accused of spying for kidnappers and facilitating the recent abduction of Malam Saidu in Vesee, Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State. She is also alleged to have participated in multiple kidnap operations conducted by a notorious kidnapper known as Chen, who has been terrorizing border communities in Taraba and Benue states.

In a related operation on September 5, troops patrolling the Wukari-Jalingo highway intercepted a vehicle with an AK-47 rifle concealed in a door compartment. The vehicle, a Blue Toyota Yaris with Registration Number Taraba KLD 652 XA, was abandoned by the driver who fled into a nearby bush.

A thorough search of the vehicle led to the discovery of an AK-47 rifle, an AK-47 magazine, and two identity cards belonging to members of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) Mutum Biyu Branch of Gassol LGA of Taraba State.

The Commander of 6 Brigade, Brigadier General Kingsley Chidiebere Uwa, commended the troops for their professionalism and swift action, urging residents to continue cooperating with security agencies by providing timely information to prevent and combat criminal activities.

The arrest of Markus and the recovery of the AK-47 rifle are seen as significant successes in the military’s operation to curb violent crimes in Taraba State. Investigation is ongoing to trace and arrest other suspects involved in the kidnapping syndicate.