Army arrests seven suspected militants in Edo

THE 4 Brigade Headquarters of the Nigerian Army in Benin City, has disclosed that it has arrested seven suspected militants in the state.

The Brigade said the suspects were arrested during a joint operation with other security agencies in Ekehuan village. Spokesman for the Brigade headquarters, Captain Mohammed Maidawa, who disclosed this in a statement said a militant camp was also destroyed during the operation.

The statement further added that another militant camp was destroyed at Ubaogolo creek, during which several items such as ammunition, charms and military uniforms were recovered.

Meanwhile, the army has denied reports that its personnel invaded Ajakurama community in Ovia South-West Local Government Area of the state on the invitation of an ex-militant, identified as one Ejuene Peres.

It described the allegation as malicious and unfounded.

It explained that it had received credible intelligence which revealed a concentration of militant camps regrouping in the community “as a result of an onslaught by troops of the Operation Crocodile Smile”.

According to the statement, “Following this discovery, a cordon and search operation was conducted. During the operation, a militant camp, including two buildings belonging to one Mr Felix Idowu, a militant leader, was destroyed.

“The troops also cordoned and searched a building and shrine belonging to one Mr Godwin Namu, who was alleged to be fortifying militants with charms.