Troops Arrest Five Suspected Bandit Informants in Niger

By Babatunji Wusu| Troops of the Joint Task Force (JTF) Operation Savannah Shield (OPSS) have arrested five suspected bandit informants during separate security operations in Niger State, recovering cash, mobile devices and other items believed to be linked to criminal activities.

According to a statement issued by Captain Jamilu Muhammed Yahaya, Acting Media Information Officer at the Headquarters of the Joint Task Force (North Central), the arrests were made during routine patrols aimed at disrupting criminal networks operating within the region.

The statement revealed that troops arrested three suspected informants on June 6, 2026, while conducting a fighting patrol along the Doro axis in Wawa, Borgu Local Government Area. Preliminary investigations allegedly linked the suspects to a bandit group operating around Duru near the borders of Kainji Lake National Park.

Items recovered from the suspects included two Tecno keypad phones, an MP3 device containing recorded propaganda messages and details relating to a kidnapping incident in Kaduna State, as well as a cash sum of ₦113,400. Security officials said the materials are being examined as investigations continue.

In a separate operation, troops of the 221 Battalion under Operation Savannah Shield arrested two additional suspects during a patrol around the cantonment perimeter. Initial findings suggested that the individuals were allegedly gathering information about the military facility.

Further checks on one suspect’s mobile phone reportedly uncovered an image showing a beheaded individual, dated May 2, 2026, which investigators believe may indicate possible links to terrorist activities.

Recovered items included an Android phone, a Tecno keypad phone, a motorcycle and ₦86,100 in cash.

The Operation Savannah Shield command said all suspects and recovered exhibits remain in custody for further investigation. It added that the arrests demonstrate the task force’s commitment to dismantling criminal support networks and maintaining pressure on threats to peace and security across the North-Central region.