Troops of Operation Enduring Peace have recovered 61 cattle during a clearance operation in Riyom Local Government Area of Plateau State.
Security sources disclosed that the operation was conducted on Thursday as part of ongoing efforts to track down suspected kidnappers who fled following sustained military pressure in the area.
The sources said troops of Sector 6 Operation Safe Haven carried out coordinated raids on suspected hideouts and high-ground locations around Sopp, Hawan Kibo and Rafin Sanyi communities in Riyom LGA.
According to the sources, the operation involved cordon-and-search activities targeting suspected kidnappers’ camps, dens and livestock enclosures believed to be linked to criminal networks operating in the area.
During the operation, troops recovered 61 cattle suspected to belong to the fleeing criminals.
“All identified camps, hideouts and cattle enclosures within the general area were searched during the operation. A total of 61 cattle suspected to belong to the criminals were recovered,” a security source said.
The source, however, noted that no arrests were made as the suspects had fled before the troops arrived.
The recovered cattle have been taken into military custody pending further investigation and necessary action by relevant authorities.
The operation forms part of ongoing efforts by security agencies to dismantle kidnapping networks and other criminal groups operating in parts of Plateau State.
By: Zagazola Makama
