Banditry Backlash: Dalung Says Anti-Terror War Helped Spread Criminal Networks

What began as a localized issue has now grown into a well-coordinated criminal enterprise,” Dalung stated.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

He explained that the expansion of these criminal networks is largely fueled by conflicts over land rich in valuable mineral resources.

“There’s a systematic elimination of indigenous communities to seize control of their lands, which are rich in mineral deposits. Behind this are powerful sponsors who fund and sustain these acts of criminality for their own gain,” he said.

Dalung also condemned the government’s apparent neglect of regions like Plateau State, which has historically been a hub of mining activity. He accused the authorities of concealing the true origins and backers of the armed groups terrorizing these areas.

Citing evidence from interrogations of arrested suspects, Dalung revealed that some had even exposed the identities of those sponsoring the violence.

He recalled a specific confession broadcast on national television: “When asked how much ransom they had collected, one of the suspects said, ‘In one of the operations, we received N100 million.’ When asked how much he was paid, he replied, ‘N200,000.’”