Kidnapping: Soldiers arrest alleged female informant, recover arms, others in Taraba

A woman suspected of acting as an informant for kidnappers has been arrested by the 6 Brigade/Sector 3 Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) in Jalingo.The suspect, Grace Markus, was arrested in Wukari Local Council over the weekend. She is alleged to have been aiding kidnappers and other criminals in Taraba State.

Acting Assistant Director of the 6 Brigade Army Public Relations, Captain Oni Olubodunde, released a statement identifying Markus as the girlfriend of a known kidnapper named Chen, who is believed to be responsible for terrorising the area.

During the operation, an AK-47 rifle and a vehicle were recovered in two separate incidents. The arrest followed the recent abduction of Malam Saidu from his residence in the Vesee community, Ukumb Local Council of Benue State.

Troops conducted an intelligence-led operation on September 6, leading to Markus’ arrest. Markus is currently in custody and is being investigated further to determine the extent of her involvement in criminal activities.

In a separate operation on September 5, troops recovered a Toyota Yaris containing an AK-47 rifle, an AK-47 magazine, and two National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) identity cards.

The vehicle’s driver fled the scene and is being sought by authorities. Brigadier General Kingsley Uwa, Commander of the 6 Brigade, commended the troops for their professionalism and swift action.

He also urged residents to continue cooperating with security agencies by providing information that could help prevent and combat criminal activities in Taraba State.