Entire Armed forces of the Nigerian Security Agencies Invades Niger Delta , Apprehends 35 Suspected Militants

The Nigerian Security agents from different agencies, ranging from the, Police, Navy,Army, National guard, to the Air force on Saturday stormed Ekpan in Uvwie local government area of Delta state where At least 35 suspected militants were arrested various sophisticated arms and ammunitions were recovered

Ekpan is known by many, as a haven for hardened criminals of different shades around Warri, Delta state. The operation code-named, “Operation Yankari.” was launched in order to rid off the area of criminalities and militancy and a special programe by the present government to clean up the area.
The Commander of 4 Brigade, Brigadier-General Farouk Yahaya, stated that security operatives were totally committed to clean up Delta state, of all illicit possession of arms and ammunition. He also said that a G3 rifle, a pistol and 20 rounds of ammunitions were recovered. The Commander of 4 Brigade said the clean up exercise was fruitful.

He said investigation would be carried out on those apprehended, as the exercise will be a continuous process.

The Delta state commissioner for police (CP), Baba Alkali Usman, who was also present, stated that the joint operation was carried out due to the various complaints by residents in Ekpan, Eburumede, Ogbomro and other major communities in Uvwie LGA.

He further said: “A total of about 35 suspects were arrested and during our preliminary screening, three persons were identified and have been released.

The remaining 32 suspects will be subjected to further investigations. We also recovered a G3 riffle loaded with 20 rounds of ammunitions and other incriminating items including suspected ballot papers.

“We also had an incident where a tryclist was flagged down by security men for a search. Instead of stopping, in a effort to escape, ran into a truck and the two occupants had accidents and were later confirmed dead.”

It was reported on Friday, March 11, that the chief of army staff, Lt. Gen. Tukur Buratai attributed the army invasion of Ogoni community in Niger Delta area, to the killing of one of its informant. When the military stormed Ogoni, 18 persons were arrested, over cult clashes.