The Northern Youth Frontiers (NYF) has applauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, the Armed Forces and intelligence community for the successful operation that led to the arrest of two high-profile commanders of Al-Qaeda-linked terrorist network, Ansaru.
This is as reports said the carefully coordinated, intelligence-driven operation resulted in the capture of Mahmud Muhammad Usman, popularly known as Abu Bara’a, the self-styled ‘Emir of Ansaru’ along with his deputy, Mahmud al-Nigeri, also called Mallam Mamuda, leader of the notorious ‘Mahmudawa’ faction operating around Kainji National Park.
In a statement issued by its national coordinator, Sama Musa on Wednesday, NYF described the breakthrough as a decisive blow not just to Ansaru’s central command but also to other terrorist groups and their enablers.
Musa said that the arrests were further evidence that Nigeria’s counter-terrorism operations under President Tinubu are yielding results through the decimation of cruel terrorists.
The youth body also commended the synergy of the military, the police, Department of State Services (DSS), National Intelligence Agency (NIA), Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA), and other partners whose professionalism and sacrifice made the operation possible.
It also acknowledged the recognition given by the United States through its Embassy in Nigeria for praising the country’s efforts in capturing Ansaru leaders, describing the international support as a boost to global cooperation against terrorism.
This latest arrests, according to NYF add to a string of recent successes against terrorists and bandits since President Tinubu assumed office.
Among those captured are Halilu Sububu, Buhari Alhaji Halidu (Buharin Yadi), Dangote (a bandit kingpin), Boderi Isyaku, Kachalla Dan Chaki, Dogo Gudali, Dogo Rabe, Alhaji Auta, Kachalla Ruga, Rufai Maikaji, bandit leader Yellow, Ali Kachalla, Ali Kawaji, as well as the arrest of Muslim Muhammad Yusuf, son of late Boko Haram leader, Muhammad Yusuf.
The group equally recognises the role of vigilant local communities whose cooperation remains crucial in denying terrorists safe havens.
“We call on security agencies to sustain and intensify efforts, swiftly exploiting recovered intelligence to dismantle remaining cells, sponsors and facilitators. With sustained resolve, we are heading towards the end of the terror groups and bandits that have long disturbed our communities.
“We appeal for consolidation of community stabilisation and victim support programmes in affected areas as the government prosecutes the captured commanders and other terrorists to ensure justice for victims while reinforcing deterrence.
“We contend that this high-profile arrest and the elimination of several notorious kingpins are part of the rewards accomplished due to strong political leadership, inter-agency coordination and citizen participation anchored on the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Tinubu,” the statement read.