Notorious Ansaru terrorist group has reportedly established a stronghold in the Birnin-Gwari forest along the critical Kaduna-Abuja Expressway.
This strategic location has become a breeding ground for criminal activities, particularly kidnapping, as the Ansaru terrorists exploit the dense cover for their nefarious operations.
The Kaduna-Abuja Expressway, a major transportation artery linking the nation’s capital, Abuja, to Kaduna, has recently witnessed a surge in attacks. Innocent citizens have fallen victim to the reign of terror imposed by the Ansaru group.
According to Samuel Aruwan, the Kaduna State Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, the grim statistics for the first quarter of 2023 are deeply alarming.
During this period, a total of 214 lives were lost due to attacks by terrorists, communal clashes, violent incidents, and reprisals across the state. Furthermore, 746 individuals were kidnapped in specified areas, including Birnin Gwari, Giwa, Igabi, Chikun, and Kajuru.
The Ansaru terrorist group, known for its ruthless tactics and links to international terror networks, has entrenched itself in the Birnin-Gwari forest. This strategic location allows them to efficiently carry out attacks, targeting unsuspecting Nigerians traveling on the crucial expressway.
Authorities are facing a critical challenge in combating the escalating threat, and urgent measures are required to ensure the safety of the populace and restore security along the Kaduna-Abuja Expressway.