By John Umeh
The Nigerian Army has announced significant operational successes after coordinated missions across multiple states led to the arrest of a notorious Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and Eastern Security Network (ESN) commander, the rescue of 12 kidnap victims, and the neutralisation of several terrorists.
A military source at Army Headquarters confirmed to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Tuesday that the operations were carried out in close collaboration with sister security agencies.
Arrest in Imo State
Troops of the 34 Artillery Brigade, in a joint operation, stormed a hideout in Aku-Ihube, Okigwe Local Government Area of Imo State, where they apprehended a wanted IPOB/ESN kingpin. The raid also uncovered a cache of arms and materials, including an English pistol, 120 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, 25 rounds of 7.62mm NATO, one cartridge, six mobile phones, and military and police uniforms. A German flag was also seized during the operation.
The troops additionally discovered a workshop where stolen vehicles were dismantled for resale. Ten motorcycles found at the location were destroyed to deny the insurgents further use.
Kidnap Victims Rescued
The Army reported that rescue operations conducted in Adamawa, Katsina, and Kogi States successfully freed 12 individuals who had been abducted.
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Five victims were rescued in Madagali Local Government Area of Adamawa.
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Another five were freed in Kukasheka Ward, Malumfashi Local Government Area of Katsina.
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Two more victims were rescued in Lokoja Local Government Area of Kogi.
Counter-Terrorism and Other Arrests
Troops also engaged armed groups in Katsina and Benue States. Two terrorists were neutralised in Katsina, with an AK-47 rifle, ammunition, and a motorcycle recovered. In Benue, one extremist was killed, and a mobile phone alongside charms was recovered.
Additionally, 11 suspects linked to armed robbery, gun-running, and extremist activities were arrested across Benue, Kogi, and Kaduna States. Troops further recovered 40 rustled cattle in Plateau State and returned them to their rightful owners.
Commitment to Security and Development
The military source emphasized that these breakthroughs were achieved through sustained synergy between the Army, other branches of the armed forces, and security agencies.
He added that the operations align with the Federal Government’s goal of boosting food security and creating safer conditions for agriculture and socio-economic development nationwide.
