The Nigerien Army has arrested a suspected senior member of the terrorist group Jama?at Nasr al-Islam wal Muslimin (JNIM) in the Tillab?ri region, recovering cash, weapons, and logistics items believed to be meant for terrorist operations.

The army, in its operations report covering April 3 to April 5, confirmed that the suspect was intercepted on April 3 at about 6:30 p.m. while traveling in a vehicle along the Torodi?Niamey route.

According to military sources, a search of the vehicle led to the recovery of a firearm, several mobile phones, and a sum of 5,032,900 CFA francs. The army believes the money was intended for the procurement of logistics to support terrorist activities.

Further investigation led troops to a garden owned by the suspect in the village of Boborgou. The location was allegedly used as a logistical base by armed groups. Items discovered included food supplies, communication airtime credit, clothing, and black fabric believed to be used for camouflage.

In a nearby school building, security forces also uncovered a significant stock of pasta reportedly meant to sustain active terrorist elements operating in the area.

The army stated that the suspect is also strongly linked to the hijacking of two vehicles between Makalondi and Niaktir? on April 2.

Security operations are ongoing in the region as part of broader efforts to dismantle terrorist networks and restore stability. (Zagazola)