Taraba Chief Took N1.5M Bribe to Shield 23 Deadly Bandits

Taraba Chief Took N1.5M Bribe to Shield 23 Deadly Bandits

A village head in Taraba State, Northeast Nigeria, has been accused of receiving N1.5 million from bandits to provide them with a hideout. The Nigerian Army exposed the chief’s alleged involvement after raiding the camp, arresting 23 suspected criminals, and recovering deadly weapons.

The operation, which took place on Sunday, February 2, in Angwan-Bala, Karim Lamido Local Government Area, led to the death of one bandit during a gunfight with security forces. Troops also seized a large cache of weapons, including four AK-47 rifles.

Captain Oni Olubodunde, spokesperson for the 6 Brigade of the Nigerian Army in Jalingo, revealed that the arrested bandits included 19 men and four women. He said the criminals relocated from Plateau State and were harboured by the village head of Amar, Karim Lamido, in exchange for the hefty sum of N1.5 million.

“Acting on credible intelligence regarding the movement of suspected bandits, our troops launched a patrol to their identified hideout. Upon arrival, the bandits opened fire, prompting an immediate and overwhelming response from the soldiers,” Olubodunde stated.

He added, “In the exchange, one bandit was neutralized, while 23 others, including four women, surrendered without resistance.”

During a thorough search of the hideout, soldiers discovered a stockpile of deadly weapons. Items recovered included four AK-47 rifles, five AK-47 magazines, 80 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, one English-made pistol, two locally-made guns, 28 cutlasses, 16 motorcycles, and 48 daggers and jackknives.

Military intelligence found that the criminals originally operated in Plateau State before relocating to Taraba. The bandits allegedly bribed the local chief to secure and establish a base in the area.

Brigadier General Kingsley Chidiebere Uwa, Commander of the 6 Brigade Nigerian Army, assured residents that the military remains committed to securing the state and dismantling criminal networks.

“This operation demonstrates our resolve to eliminate criminals, restore lasting peace, and ensure that Taraba State does not become a safe haven for terrorists. We will continue working with relevant authorities to sustain the fight against insecurity,” Uwa stated.

The arrest of the bandits and the exposure of the village head’s alleged involvement in criminal activities has sent shockwaves through the community. Residents have expressed concerns over how deeply banditry has infiltrated local leadership structures. Many are calling for stricter measures to prevent traditional rulers from aiding criminal activities.

This revelation comes amid ongoing efforts by security forces to curb rising banditry and terrorism across Nigeria. The government has repeatedly warned that anyone found collaborating with criminals, regardless of status, will face the full wrath of the law.

As investigations continue, authorities are expected to interrogate the arrested bandits and the village head to uncover further details about their operations. The Nigerian Army has urged residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to security agencies.

The crackdown on banditry remains a priority for security forces, especially in states like Taraba, where criminal activities have threatened peace and stability. This latest success serves as a warning to those shielding criminals that they will be exposed and brought to justice.