By Gabriel Ameh
Nigerian troops have arrested a suspected notorious criminal while he was receiving treatment for a gunshot wound at a hospital in Kaduna State, as the military intensifies operations against armed groups in Zamfara State.
The suspect, identified as Auta Maikyala, was arrested on November 5 at a hospital in Kagarko town, Kagarko Local Government Area, during an intelligence-led operation by troops of Sector 1, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, working alongside operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS).
The Acting Media Information Officer of the Joint Task Force (North West), Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Captain Tamuno Sinivie, disclosed the arrest in a statement issued on Friday, November 6.
According to the military, preliminary investigations indicated that Maikyala allegedly sustained the gunshot injury during an encounter with a rival faction before visiting the hospital for medical attention.
The military described him as an alleged notorious criminal linked to several attacks on communities, kidnapping and cattle rustling.
He remains in custody as investigations continue ahead of possible prosecution.
Military Clears Suspected Terrorist Hideouts in Zamfara
In a separate operation, troops intensified clearance operations in parts of Maradun Local Government Area of Zamfara State, targeting locations believed to be used by armed groups.
The November 5 operation covered Aljummu Hausa, Aljummu Fulani and Tunga Magaji villages, where troops reportedly cleared several suspected terrorist hideouts.
The Nigerian Air Force also carried out air interdiction operations against identified terrorist locations in Babban Doka and Kuyumbana Forest, both in Maru Local Government Area of Zamfara State.
The military said the locations were suspected to be associated with wanted terrorist kingpin, Dogo Gide.
The air operation followed intelligence reports indicating that armed men were gathering in the areas to plan and coordinate criminal activities.
According to the task force, troops are maintaining a strong presence across the affected areas to prevent suspected terrorists from regrouping and launching further attacks.
Military Appeals for Public Support
The Joint Task Force reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining security operations across its area of responsibility to protect lives and property.
It also urged residents to support ongoing efforts by providing timely and credible information about suspected terrorists, criminal networks and their activities to security agencies.
The military said cooperation between residents and security forces remains important in disrupting armed groups and improving security across the North-West.
