The Niger State Government has confirmed the arrest of the feared leader of the Mahmuda terror group, Abubakar Abba, during a Department of State Service (DSS) operation in Wawa, Borgu Local Government Area.

Naijaonpoint reports that Abba, whose group had terrorised communities across Niger and Kwara states, was reportedly captured alive in an intelligence-led raid and moved to Abuja for further investigation.

Governor Mohammed Bago’s Chief Press Secretary, Bologi Ibrahim, in a statement on Wednesday, hailed the operation as a breakthrough in the fight against insecurity.

Ibrahim said, “Yes, it is true. I can confirm that the leader of Mahmuda, which is one of the most dangerous terror groups in West Africa, Abubakar Abba, has been arrested by the DSS.

“He was apprehended alive through an intelligence-led operation by the DSS. This is a huge victory for us as a people and as a government, and President Tinubu deserves commendation for this cheering news.”

Ibrahim further stated that the arrest “demonstrates the commitment of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to truly ending insecurity and promoting the well-being of Nigerians.”

The Mahmuda group, an offshoot of Boko Haram with reported ties to the Islamic State, has been blamed for multiple deadly attacks in Niger and Kwara states.

On June 3, the group allegedly launched two separate assaults in Kwara, killing seven villagers in one day. Other attacks in the region left several residents abducted and at least 15 vigilantes dead in Kemanji village.

The terrorists, often clad in camouflage and riding motorcycles, were also accused of striking communities near Kainji Lake National Park, attacking markets, killing locals, and abducting scores of people.

Security reports indicate that Mahmuda established strongholds in forested areas linking Niger, Nasarawa, Kwara, and Kogi states, where it engaged in illegal mining, forced labour, and extortion of farmers and herders.

The group’s operations left communities in constant fear, with repeated attacks disrupting local economies and forcing residents to flee.

Governor Bago commended the DSS for the successful mission, describing it as a significant step toward restoring peace and security in the North-Central region.

“This is a strong demonstration of President Tinubu’s commitment to the safety and welfare of Nigerians,” he said.