JTF arrests 6 after killing of policeman, 4 soldiers

In response to Friday’s attack on its troops at Nembe community in Bayelsa state, the Joint Task Force (JTF) “Operation Pulo Shield” has arrested six suspects and has destroyed a camp where they were holing up.

The attack by suspected oil bunkerers led to the death of four soldiers and a policeman.

Consequently, the JTF carried out a cordon-and-search operation in suspected militant camps thought to be responsible for the attack.

“The militant camp was destroyed by JTF troops while six suspects comprising of four males and two females were arrested,” the defence headquarters said in a statement on Sunday.

“Large quantities of arms and live ammunition were also recovered from the camp. The arrested suspects are in custody of the JTF and are helping the task force in the investigation that will lead to the arrest of other fleeing suspects and their sponsors. Other items recovered from the militant camp include three speed boats, communication gadgets and generators.@

It said the task force was “in hot pursuit” of other fleeing suspects and will in no time catch up with them and bring them to justice.

“The JTF will continue to dominate the creeks and waterways of the Niger Delta region and will not rest until the perpetrators of this heinous act are apprehended,” it said.

“The JTF also uses this opportunity to call on people with credible information that will lead to the arrest of other fleeing suspects to come forward with it to enable the task force carry out its operation effectively in line with its mandate and zero tolerance campaign against all acts illegalities in the region‎.”