400+ suspected militants held
2008-09-30 21:20
Port Harcourt - A Nigerian military official says more than 400 suspected militants have been arrested following a spate of attacks in the restive southern oil region.
Military spokesperson Sagir Musa says 443 suspects have been detained in eight days of military raids that began after the militants ended a string of attacks and declared a cease-fire September 21.
The recent spike in militant activity was the worst to hit Africa's oil giant in years.
Officials estimate that Nigeria's current oil production is down almost 40% from 2005 levels.
- AP