The Nigerian military has announced the arrest of five foreign nationals suspected of involvement in criminal activities in Plateau State. The Defence Headquarters made this disclosure in a statement issued on Saturday by Major General Markus Kangye, the Director of Defence Media Operations.
According to Major General Kangye, the apprehended individuals comprise three foreign Fulani migrants and two Chadian nationals. These arrests took place between May 15 and May 20, 2025, in Jos North Local Government Area of Plateau State. The suspects claimed they were working with an international company, but have since been handed over to relevant authorities for further investigation and action.
Earlier in May, the Nigerian Army had linked foreign herders to recent violent clashes in Plateau and Benue states, underscoring the ongoing security challenges in the region.
Major General Kangye also highlighted the achievements of Nigerian troops across various operations during the same period. He reported that security forces arrested a total of 28 terrorists, logistics suppliers, and other criminal elements, while successfully rescuing 47 hostages.
In addition, troops involved in Operation DELTA SAFE thwarted oil thefts valued at over N533 million within the week under review. The seizures included 550,350 litres of stolen crude oil, 13,710 litres of illegally refined AGO (Automotive Gas Oil), and 350 litres of DPK (Dual Purpose Kerosene). Alongside these, military personnel discovered and destroyed 45 crude oil cooking ovens, 30 dugout pits, 16 boats, 37 storage tanks, 11 drums, and 18 illegal refining sites.
Other recovered items included pumping and drilling machines, tricycles, motorcycles, mobile phones, and four vehicles. Additionally, 51 oil thieves and other criminals were apprehended, and assorted arms and ammunition were seized.
Major General Kangye reaffirmed the Armed Forces of Nigeria’s unwavering commitment to combating terrorism, banditry, and other forms of criminality to safeguard all Nigerians. Under the leadership of General CG Musa, the troops remain resolute, steadfast, and vigilant in their mission to restore peace to troubled areas while prioritizing the welfare of their personnel.
The announcement comes amid ongoing violence in Plateau State, where in April, armed groups attacked Zikke community in Bassa Local Government Area, resulting in dozens of deaths, destruction of homes, and mass displacement. This attack followed a similar deadly incident in Bokkos Local Government Area, reflecting the persistent security challenges in the region.