George Okoh in Makurdi
The Commandant, Nigerian Army 72 Special Forces Battalion, Makurdi, Lieutenant Col. Suleiman Mohammed, Saturday announced the arrest of one Aminu Yaminu, also know as Tashaku, who is believed to be a key Boko Haram member who masterminded most of the recent attacks in Benue State.
Lt. Col. Mohammed disclosed this at the 72 Special Forces Battalion Barrack in Makurdi while parading three herdsmen arrested by his troops with weapons at Tormatar village in Guma local government area of Benue State.
He said the arrest of the key Boko Haram suspect was carried out by the combined troops of the 707 Special Forces Brigade, the Police and DSS, adding that he is under their custody for investigation.
On the arrest of the armed herdsmen, Lt. Col. Mohammed said his troops, following intelligence gathered, encountered the suspects at their camp located close to Tormatar village in Guma local government area.
He said the armed herdsmen, who engaged the troops in a gun battle, were consequently dislodged while three of them were arrested.
Lt. Col. Mohammed said two AK47 rifles with 6 rounds of 7.62 mm special ammunition were recovered from them as well as some charms.
The arrested armed herdsmen were identified as Abubakar Umaru, Adamu Likita and Yusufa Alhaja.
The commandant warned armed herdsmen as well as other criminals to stay away from the state.
