By Mohammed Bello Doka
Troops of the Nigerian Army, in collaboration with local vigilante forces, have made significant strides in curbing the activities of terrorists and kidnappers across the country. In a series of well-coordinated counter-terrorism operations, they neutralized two kidnappers and one terrorist, rescued a hostage, and recovered a cache of arms and other assorted items.
In Edo State, the swift response of troops to a distress call reporting the kidnap of Mr. Eritobor Stephen in Ekowe Community, Ovia South Local Government Area, on Wednesday, July 24, 2024, led to a successful operation. Engaging the kidnappers in a gun battle, the troops neutralized two of them, while the others fled towards the Edo-Ondo state border. However, alert troops in Ondo State laid an ambush along the escape route, resulting in the arrest of the fleeing kidnappers around Akotogbo in Ese Odo Local Government Area. The troops recovered an AK-47 rifle, a locally fabricated pistol, an AK-47 rifle magazine, 12 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, and two wraps of substance suspected to be marijuana.
In a separate operation in Kaduna State, troops conducting a clearance operation intercepted a fleeing terrorist who abandoned his motorbike upon sighting the troops. Further pursuit led to the neutralization of another terrorist also attempting to escape on a motorbike. The troops recovered an AK-47 rifle, seven rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, and a mobile phone from the terrorist. Additionally, five new motorbikes and a magazine loaded with 11 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition were recovered during an extensive search of the area.
These successful operations underscore the commitment and effectiveness of Nigerian Army troops in combating terrorism and ensuring the safety and security of citizens.
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