Taraba Chief Collected ₦1.5 Million from Bandits, Allowed Them to Set Up Camp in His Village

 

In a shocking development in Taraba State, Northeast Nigeria, a traditional chief has been accused of receiving ₦1.5 million from bandits in exchange for providing them with a hideout in his village.

 

According to the Nigerian Army, the incident occurred over the weekend in Angwan-Bala, Karim Lamido Local Government Area. During a military operation, troops engaged the criminals, killing one bandit and arresting 23 others, including four women.

The 6 Brigade Nigerian Army spokesperson, Captain Oni Olubodunde, revealed that the terrorists had relocated from Plateau State and were welcomed by the village head of Amar, Karim Lamido, who allowed them to set up camp.

 

“Acting on credible intelligence, our troops conducted a fighting patrol to the identified hideout. On sighting the patrol team, the bandits opened fire, prompting an immediate and overwhelming response. One bandit was neutralized, while 23 others, including 19 males and 4 females, surrendered,” Olubodunde stated.

 

A thorough search of the camp led to the recovery of a large cache of weapons, including:

 

• 4 AK-47 rifles

• 5 AK-47 magazines

• 80 rounds of 7.62mm ammunition

• 1 English-made pistol

• 2 locally-made guns

• 28 cutlasses

• 48 daggers and jackknives

• 16 motorcycles

 

Preliminary investigations confirmed that the ₦1.5 million payment facilitated the bandits’ relocation and settlement in Amar village.

 

Brigadier General Kingsley Chidiebere Uwa, Commander of the 6 Brigade Nigerian Army, assured residents that the military remains committed to eradicating crime in the region.

 

“This operation is a testament to our determination to eliminate criminal elements, restore lasting peace, and ensure that Taraba State does not become a safe haven for terrorists. We will continue to collaborate with relevant stakeholders to sustain the fight against insecurity,” Uwa stated.

 

The local chief’s role in aiding the criminals is now under investigation, as authorities intensify efforts to dismantle bandit networks in the state.