Army Offensive Disrupts Kidnappers’ Network in Southern Kaduna
Security operations against kidnapping syndicates in Southern Kaduna have recorded another breakthrough as troops of the Nigerian Army, operating under the Joint Task Force (JTF) Operation Enduring Peace, dismantled a criminal hideout in Jemaa Local Government Area, killing one suspected kidnapper.
The operation took place in Jagindi Kagom village on January 2, 2026, following actionable intelligence indicating the presence of kidnappers in the community.
Acting on the information, troops attached to Sector 7 under Operation Peace Shield launched a coordinated clearance mission on the identified location.
According to a statement issued on Saturday by the Acting Military Information Officer of the Joint Task Force, Captain Joshua John, via the Nigerian Army’s official X handle, the troops encountered resistance on arrival, leading to a gun duel between the soldiers and the suspected criminals.
“During the encounter, one of the suspects was neutralised. He was later identified as Dahiru Adamu Barka, while other members of the criminal gang escaped into the surrounding areas,” the statement said.
Military sources disclosed that the operation has significantly disrupted the activities of the gang, although some of its members managed to flee. Troops have since commenced follow-up operations to track and apprehend the escaping suspects and prevent any regrouping.
“Sector 7 troops are currently tracking the remaining criminal elements to ensure they face the full wrath of the law,” the post added.
Meanwhile, the General Officer Commanding 3 Division Nigerian Army and Commander of Joint Task Force Operation Enduring Peace, Major General EF Oyinlola, has lauded the troops for what he described as a professional and well-executed operation.
He reiterated the military’s resolve to rid the Joint Operations Area of all forms of criminality.
The commander further appealed to residents of Kaduna State to continue cooperating with security agencies by providing timely and credible intelligence to support ongoing operations.
The Joint Task Force Operation Enduring Peace reassured the public that sustained military pressure will be maintained against criminal elements to safeguard lives and property across Kaduna State and the wider Joint Operations Area.
