The Nigerian Army has arrested twelve suspected terrorists linked to a breakaway faction of Boko Haram, known as the Mahmuda group, during a coordinated military operation targeting the Kanji Lake National Park and surrounding border communities in Kwara and Niger States.
The suspects, including two confirmed members of the armed group and ten alleged accomplices, were apprehended at different locations during a sweeping raid led by troops of the 2 Division, Nigerian Army.
Major General Obinna Onubogu, General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the 2 Division, disclosed the arrests on Saturday while visiting military camps in Kaiama and Baruten local government areas of Kwara State. The visit was aimed at assessing troop welfare and receiving operational briefings.
“This counterinsurgency operation, codenamed ‘Park Strike Four,’ is designed to eliminate criminal elements from the Kanji Lake National Park and restore peace to affected communities,” Gen. Onubogu stated.
He noted that troops have successfully combed at least 90 kilometers of forest terrain, from Kemanji deep into the Kanji reserve, where the military has now established a firm base of operations.
The arrested suspects are believed to be part of a group that has terrorized residents in Baruten and Kaiama LGAs of Kwara, as well as Borgu LGA of Niger State—allegedly engaging in maiming, extortion, and other violent crimes.
“Our men have made considerable progress and have succeeded in dislodging several criminal elements. The operation continues until normalcy is fully restored,” the GOC affirmed.
Following his visit to frontline troops, General Onubogu paid courtesy calls to the Emir of Kaiama, Alhaji Muazu Sheu Omar, and the head of the Kemanji community, Shao’ki Aliyu Siki-Muhammed. There, he reassured local leaders of the Army’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property and boosting public morale.
It will be recalled that the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. General Olufemi Oluyede, had earlier issued a one-month deadline for the complete clearance of insurgents and armed groups from the Kanji Lake axis. In response, the 2 Division has ramped up deployments across strategic points in Kwara and Niger States.
The Army continues its pursuit of remaining insurgents hiding within the park and its adjoining communities, with renewed calls for civilian cooperation and intelligence sharing.
