Security forces have reportedly arrested a suspected fighter of the Lakurawa terrorist group linked to recent attacks and mass abductions in Borgu Local Government Area of Niger State.
The suspect, identified as Dego, was reportedly apprehended in the western axis of Borgu LGA as military operations against the terrorist group intensify in the area.
According to conflict reporter Bakatsine, who disclosed the development on Thursday, Dego is allegedly connected to attacks and mass abductions around Dekara, where more than 500 women, men and children are still believed to be in captivity.
The arrest follows coordinated attacks on several communities in the area on August 21, during which terrorists reportedly abducted residents, including Muslim worshippers gathered for Friday prayers.
Communities reportedly affected include Gidan-Zana, Kpenya, Masaka and Sabon Gida, with earlier reports suggesting that as many as 600 people may have been abducted.
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Among those reportedly taken were the 90-year-old father of the District Head of Dekara and the Chief Imam of Dekara Central Mosque.
The attacks were said to have occurred around 2pm while residents were preparing for or attending Jumu’ah prayers.
The suspected arrest of Dego could provide security agencies with vital intelligence on the terrorist group’s movements, networks and hideouts, as well as possible locations where the abducted victims are being held.
The priority, according to the conflict report, is to use information obtained from the suspect to locate and safely rescue those still in captivity.
The situation has heightened concerns over the security of rural communities in Borgu, particularly following reports that terrorists had previously demanded levies from residents and sought to impose strict religious rules on communities in the area.
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