The Northern Christian Association, NCA, said yesterday that cutting off the supply of arms to terrorists was key to weakening their operations and reducing attacks on innocent Nigerians.

The group also commended the Department of State Services, DSS, for the arrest of five suspects allegedly linked to the November 2025 abduction of students and staff of St. Mary’s Catholic School, Papiri, Niger State.

It said the arrests highlighted the importance of targeting not only those who carried out attacks but also the networks that supplied them with weapons, funding and logistical support, describing such efforts as essential to breaking the cycle of violence across the country.

In a statement by the chairman, Rev. Joseph John Hayab, the NCA said the operation demonstrated the value of sustained intelligence gathering and coordinated security efforts in the fight against terrorism and violent crimes.

Hayab said citizens of good conscience should not only criticise government when it fell short of expectations but also acknowledge positive outcomes whenever they occurred.

According to him, the arrest of individuals allegedly involved in supplying arms to criminal elements highlights the importance of intelligence-led operations aimed at identifying and dismantling the support structures that enable terrorists and other violent groups to operate.

He said dismantling networks that provide logistics and weapons to terrorists remained critical to reducing their ability to launch attacks on innocent citizens and vulnerable communities.

While applauding security personnel for their commitment and sacrifices in the face of persistent threats, the association noted that many operatives continued to risk their lives, despite frequently being targeted by terrorists and other criminal elements.

The NCA, however, said the arrests should mark the beginning, rather than the end of the process, urging security agencies to ensure that investigations were thorough and that everyone connected to the alleged crime was identified and brought to justice.

It said bringing all those involved to justice would send a strong message that those who aid terrorism and violent crime would be held accountable for their actions.

Hayab also urged security personnel not to be discouraged in their efforts to protect the nation, expressing confidence that sustained collaboration among security agencies, communities and other stakeholders would help move the country closer to the goal of a peaceful, secure and united Nigeria.

The association further called on the federal government and security agencies to intensify efforts against terrorism, banditry and other violent crimes, saying sustained action against the networks that arm and support violent groups remains vital to restoring public confidence and improving national security. (Text, excluding headline: Vanguard)

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