The Nigerian Army has recorded a significant breakthrough in its fight against insecurity with the arrest of a notorious IPOB/ESN commander and the rescue of 12 kidnap victims across multiple states. According to a credible source at Army Headquarters, the operations were conducted in synergy with sister services and other security agencies within the last 24 hours.
A notorious IPOB/ESN kingpin was apprehended at his hideout in Aku-Ihube, Okigwe Local Government Area of Imo State. Eleven suspects were also arrested in Benue, Kogi, and Kaduna States for various offenses, including armed robbery, gun-running, and violent extremist activities.
One English pistol, 120 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, 25 rounds of 7.62mm NATO, one cartridge, six mobile phones, military and police uniforms, and a German flag were recovered from the IPOB/ESN commander. Troops also uncovered a workshop where stolen vehicles were dismantled for resale and destroyed 10 motorcycles found at the scene. Additionally, 40 rustled cattle were recovered in Plateau and returned to their rightful owners.
Five kidnap victims were rescued in Madagali Local Government Area of Adamawa, five in Kukasheka Ward, Malumfashi Local Government Area of Katsina State, and two in Lokoja Local Government Area of Kogi State.
Troops neutralized two terrorists in separate encounters in Katsina, recovering an AK-47 rifle, ammunition, and a motorcycle. One violent extremist was also neutralized in Benue, with a mobile phone and charms recovered
The Nigerian Army emphasized its commitment to creating a safe environment to boost agriculture and socio-economic development in line with the Federal Government’s food security drive. The operational breakthroughs were achieved through sustained collaboration between the Nigerian army, sister services, and other security agencies
