Troops nab alleged kidnapper, recover N2m ransom cash, IED in Enugu raids

By Sumaila Ogbaje

Nigerian military has listed improvised explosive device, N2 million ransom cash, a gun and arrest of suspected kidnapper among the successes of its troops in recent operations in Enugu State.

The operations were conducted by troops of 82 Division, Nigerian Army, under Operation UDO KA, according to operational seen on Tuesday in Abuja.

In one of the operations, troops of 82 Division Garrison, with 103 Battalion and the Air Component, conducted clearance operations targeted at the enclaves of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network in Ajali Forest, Ezeagu Local Government Area of Enugu State.

It said the troops discovered an anti-tank improvised explosive device along the axis during the operation.

“The IED was recovered to a safe area by an Explosive Ordnance Disposal team after three failed detonation attempts,” the report stated.

It added that troops continued forest clearance using bulldozers and chainsaws to deny criminal elements freedom of action.

“In a related development, troops at Adani, Uzo-Uwani Local Government Area, conducted a raid based on actionable intelligence.

“Security information indicated that ransom for a kidnapped victim was electronically tracked to a location near the troops’ deployment area.

“Troops swiftly mobilised and apprehended a suspect’s brother at the scene,” it said.

The report added that further exploitation led to the recovery of a pump-action rifle and N2 million from the suspect’s residence.

It said the suspect and recovered items had been handed over to relevant authorities for further investigation and action.

“All operations were conducted successfully without incident,” the report added. (NAN)