Two members of a notorious kidnap syndicate, Nali Umaru (26) and Abubakar Umaru (25), have been arrested by the Nigerian Army in Bali Local Government Area, Taraba State.

In a statement released on Thursday, May 16, 2024, the Army reported the recovery of two locally made pistols, 60 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, one round of 7.62mm NATO ammunition, and two cartridges from the suspects.

The statement detailed the operation, explaining, "In a decisive operation to enhance security and combat criminal activities in Taraba State, troops of 6 Brigade/Sector 3 Operation WHIRL STROKE (OPWS) have intensified their operations in Bali Local Government Area, apprehending two suspected terrorists and seizing a significant quantity of arms and ammunition."

The operation, conducted by troops from the 20 Model Battalion Sub-Sector 3A OPWS stationed at the Forward Operating Base in Bali Local Government Area, took place on May 16, 2024, during a patrol to Pamanga Village. The arrested suspects, Nali Umaru from Jauromani and Abubakar Umaru from Jauro Damji, both of Sunkani Local Government Area, confessed to being part of a notorious kidnapping gang operating in the region.

The Nigerian Army emphasized that the arrest of these suspects demonstrates their commitment to eradicating criminal activities and instilling confidence in the residents of the state. The public is encouraged to remain vigilant and provide security agencies with timely information about any suspicious activities in their communities.