Troops of 25 Brigade, Garrison, under Operation HADIN KAI, have arrested two suspected cattle rustlers in Damboa Local Government Area of Borno State following credible intelligence.
Security sources disclosed that the suspects, identified as Usman Gare, 28, and Goni Kuma, 23, were apprehended at about 12:01 p.m. on Sunday along the Azir road axis near Serial 4 checkpoint in Damboa.
According to the sources, preliminary investigation revealed that the suspects were allegedly involved in the rustling of cattle belonging to Boko Haram/ISWAP elements in Jameri, an action which reportedly led to their earlier abduction by the terrorists.
The sources added that a third suspect, identified as Hamid, alleged to be a buyer of stolen cattle, was also arrested at Damboa market for his suspected role in receiving rustled livestock.
All suspects are currently in custody of 25 Brigade and undergoing further interrogation.
Security officials said investigations are ongoing to uncover wider networks involved in cattle rustling and illegal livestock trade within the axis.
They added that the general security situation across the theatre remains calm but unpredictable, while troops’ morale and operational efficiency remain satisfactory.
By Sagazola Amaka
