The Nigerian Army says its troops have recorded major breakthroughs in coordinated operations across the country within the last 24 hours, leading to the arrest of a notorious IPOB/ESN commander, the rescue of 12 kidnap victims, and the neutralisation of several terrorists.
A source at Army Headquarters told NAN that troops of the 34 Artillery Brigade, in a joint operation with sister agencies, stormed Aku-Ihube, Okigwe LGA of Imo State, where they apprehended an IPOB/ESN kingpin. Items recovered included a pistol, over 140 rounds of ammunition, police and military uniforms, six mobile phones, and a German flag. A vehicle dismantling workshop and 10 motorcycles were also destroyed at the hideout.
Troops further rescued five kidnapped victims in Adamawa, another five in Katsina, and two in Kogi. In separate encounters in Katsina and Benue, security forces neutralised three terrorists, recovering an AK-47 rifle, ammunition, charms, and a motorcycle.
The source added that 11 suspects linked to armed robbery, gun-running, and extremist activities were arrested across Benue, Kogi, and Kaduna, while 40 rustled cattle were recovered in Plateau and returned to their owners. He stressed that the army, working with other security agencies, remains focused on safeguarding lives, boosting agriculture, and supporting the Federal Government’s food security agenda.
