Nigerian Army says it has successfully apprehended Alhaji Abdulkarim Bawa, a notorious leader of kidnappers in Plateau State. The announcement came through a press statement released on Thursday by Major General Edward Buba, Director of Defence Media Operations.
The statement highlighted the recent advancements made by the Army in countering insurgency and terrorism within the nation. The suspect, identified as a notorious kidnapper, had long been sought after and was finally captured on August 8, 2023, at Anaret Market within the Mangu Local Government Area of Plateau State.
The statement reads in part: “On 8 August 2023, troops arrested a notorious kidnap gang leader identified as Alhaji Abdulkarim Bawa at Janaret Market in Mangu LGA of Plateau State. The suspect being on the wanted list was tracked and apprehended.”
“On 10 August 23, troops responded to a distress call on kidnapping activities at Shabu – Danan Village in Bokkos LGA of Plateau State. Troops pursued the kidnappers through their escape route and arrested 2 suspects hiding in a nearby bush. Troops recovered one fabricated AK 47 rifle, 8 rounds of 7.62 mm Special ammo and one empty case. Others include one cutlass, 2 mobile phones and sum of Five Thousand, Nine Hundred Naira (₦5,900) only,” the statement added.
The statement continued: “Troops Arrest an Imposter. On 8 August 2023, troops arrested an impostor, Mr Nurudeen Mohammed at Doya Village in Wukari LGA of Taraba State. Preliminary investigation revealed that the suspect has been impersonating as a service personnel and extorting locals around the general area.
“On 10 August 2023, troops on patrol arrested a suspected IPOB/ESN criminal around Afor in Nnewi South LGA of Anambra State. The suspect was with blood stains on his leg. He was suspected to have escaped from Orsumoghu Forest following intense aerial bombardment of hideouts in the general area by air component.
“On 11 August 2023, troops raided identified IPOB/ESN criminals’ houses at MPU Community in Ivo LGA of Ebonyi State. Troops arrested 2 IPOB/ESN criminals. Troops recovered one Pump action gun and 3 live cartridges.
“On 15 August 2023, troops in conjunction with NDLEA operatives raided Aguleri general area in Anambra East LGA of Anambra State. troops arrested 12 suspects. Troop recovered one Single barrel gun with 100 live cartridges as well as some substances suspected to be cannabis.”