The United States government has praised Nigeria for the capture of senior commanders of the terrorist group Jama’atu Ansarul Muslimina fi-Biladis Sudan, commonly known as Ansaru.
A statement on Monday via the US Mission in Nigeria’s official X account described the arrests as a major advance in the country’s fight against terrorism and extremism.
The commendation followed an announcement by the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, confirming that two of the sect’s leaders, Mahmud Muhammad Usman, also known as Abu Bara’a, and Mahmud al-Nigeri, also known as Mallam Mamuda, were apprehended in a targeted operation conducted between May and July.
Ribadu said both men held high-ranking positions within Ansaru, a group with established links to Al-Qaeda and responsible for multiple violent attacks across northern Nigeria.
Presidential spokesman Mr Bayo Onanuga earlier described the arrests as a significant breakthrough in the ongoing fight against terrorism.
The US Mission reiterated this sentiment and commended the Nigerian security forces for their role in the operation.
“We commend the Nigerian Government and security forces on the successful arrest of wanted Ansaru leaders, Mahmud Muhammad Usman (aka Abu Bara’a) and Mahmud al-Nigeri (aka Mallam Mamuda). This represents a major advance in Nigeria’s efforts to combat terrorism and extremism,” the statement read.
About the Author
