TheCable

The Defence Headquarters says troops of operation Whirl Punch have arrested one of the “masterminds” of the attack on the Abuja-Kaduna train.

On March 28, 2022, a train on its way from Abuja was attacked by gunmen in the Kateri-Rijana area of Kaduna state, with several persons killed and others abducted.

The abducted passengers were released in batches, while the last set regained their freedom in October 2022.

In a statement on Thursday, Musa Danmadami, director, defence media operations, said the suspect was apprehended in Damba community in Chikun LGA, Kaduna state, on February 14. 

“Troops of Operation Whirl Punch on 14 February 2023 responded to information on the presence of Boko Haram terrorists/Islamic State of West Africa Province kingpins at Damba community in Chikun Local Government Area of Kaduna State. Subsequently, troops mobilised to the location and arrested 3 terrorists,” the statement reads. 

“One of the terrorists arrested was identified as one of the masterminds of the 28 March 2022 terrorist attack on the Abuja Kaduna Train Services.”

The statement added that the raid led to the recovery of two motorcycles, mobile phones, $5,000, and other items.

In other operations across north-west states, troops killed several suspected insurgents and recovered arms, mobile phones, and other items.

“Also, on 16 February 2023, troops on fighting patrol made contact with terrorists at Ungwan Birni in Kajuru Local Government Area of Kaduna State,” the statement reads.

“Following fire fight, troops neutralised 7 terrorists while others fled. Troops exploited the general area and recovered 83 rounds of 7.62mm NATO, 50 rounds of 7.62mm special, 7 magazines, 5 motorcycles and 3 mobile phones among other items. 

“Also, on 20 February 2023, troops on fighting patrol to Gada Oli Village in Borgu Local Government Area of Niger State, recovered 2 AK 47 rifles, 4 magazines, 66 rounds of 7.62 mm special ammunition and 7 BH/ISWAP terrorist flags.

“Consequently, within the weeks in review, troops in the North West Zone recovered 10 AK47 rifles, 83 rounds of 7.62mm NATO, 238 rounds of 7.62mm special, 2 locally fabricated rifles, 1 locally fabricated pistol, 7 magazines, 19 motorcycles, mobile phones, 30 rustled cattle and other sundry items. 

“Troops also neutralizsd 23 terrorists and arrested 9 as well as rescued 23 abducted civilians. All recovered items and rescued civilians were handed over to the relevant authority for further action while arrested terrorists were documented for further action.”