Nigerian security forces arrest 40 armed gang members

By Adam Abu-bashal

ABUJA, Nigeria (AA) – Nigerian security forces have arrested 40 armed gang members in northeastern Adamawa state, where the Boko Haram terrorist group also has a presence.

Speaking to the local press, Adamawa state Commissioner of Police Aliyu Adamu said anti-gang operations had been conducted in various parts of the state. Eight guns, a vast amount of ammunition and some cash have also been seized.

A conflict that started in 2008 between cattle herdsmen and farmers escalated into widespread abductions and robberies across the country.

Last year, more than 3,000 people lost their lives in the country due to armed clashes between various gangs.

*Writing by Ahmet Gencturk