NA apprehends 20 notorious suspected criminals in Kogi
Onogwu Muhammed
The joined forces of the Nigerian Army and other sister security agencies have arrested 20 suspected notorious criminals that have been terrorising the people of Kogi State through its Clearance Operation code named “Operation 777”.
Acting Director, Defence Information of the Nigerian Army Headquarters, Brig Gen. John Agim disclosed this on Saturday at the Command Army Records, Chari Megumeri barracks,Lokoja, while briefing journalists on the activities of the Clearance Operation which was launched on October 8, 2018 to combat criminal activities across the country.
He said the suspects were arrested following the intensity of offensive operations launched across the three senatorial districts of the state which led to the recovery of illegal arms which include 7 locally fabricated guns, one AK 47 rifle, two magazines and 45 rounds of assorted ammunition.
The Army Spokesman said prominent amongst those arrested was one Eleme Salihu who had been a notorious kidnap kingpin operating along the Itobe-Anyigba, Idah axis in Ofu LGA of the state.
According to Agim “Local traders, motorists, travellers and residents of villages/settlements in these general areas are now conducting their business unmolested”.
He said the troop foiled several kidnapping attempts and had intensified confidence building through patrols, show of force, blocking operations as well as cordon and search, which he noted had yielded positive results within the period under review.
Gen. Agim while calling on youth in the state to desist from political thuggery and other actions that would lead to breach of peace and security, urged members of the public to always avail the security agencies with information that would lead to prevention and fight against crimes.
Kogi State Security Adviser, Retired Navy Commander Jerry Omodara, who commended the Army for successes recorded by the operation in the state, assured that the state government would continue to give the necessary supports to ensure the state remains crime free.
He said the government would ensure prevalence of peaceful and secured atmosphere across the state ahead of the forthcoming festive season and all the activities heralding the 2019 general elections.
Omodara on behalf of the state Governor, Alhaji Yahaya Bello commiserated with the Nigerian Army over the recent loss of its men while on the line of duty fighting insurgency in Borno State.
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