Forty-two (42) suspected bandits and terrorists, who disguised as miners of solid minerals, have been apprehended by the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, NSCDC, Federal Capital Territory Command.

The Commandant, NSCDC, Federal Capital Territory Command, Olusola Odumosu, while parading the suspects on Wednesday said that they were arrested on Monday in Niger State with the help of credible intelligence and in collaboration with the 176 Guards Battalion of the Nigerian Army.

He said that acting on credible intelligence and in collaboration with the 176 Guards Battalion of the Nigerian Army, 42 suspected bandits and terrorists operating under the cover of being miners of solid minerals were arrested.

He added, “The arrest took place on Monday, February 12, 2024 at about 06:00hrs.

“The suspects were intercepted at the forest of Tsaumi Village bordering Lambata in Gurara Local Government Area of Niger State.”

The Commandant, while giving more insights about the suspected bandits, explained that preliminary investigation by the corps revealed that they may not be miners but suspected bandits fleeing the ongoing onslaught of the military operation in Zamfara State through the forest zone of Niger State into the FCT, through the Gwagwalada Area Council, en route Pai Village of Kwali Area Council.

He said that they were unable to disclose the mining site and company name they worked for.

Odumosu stated that further actions would be taken after investigations.