Troops of the Nigerian Army deployed for counter terrorism operations across the country in a series of coordinated operations have intercepted and thwarted the nefarious activities of notorious kidnap kingpins in Anambra, Oyo, and Katsina States.
In a statement on its social media platform on Wednesday, it said in Anambra State, troops on patrol successfully intercepted and arrested two suspected IPOB/ESN members identified as Ifeanyi Godwin and Uche Onuoha.
According to the statement, they were intercepted in a Toyota Highlander SUV, near Umunze, Orumba South Local Government Area (LGA).
“The suspects were found in possession of 2 pump-action rifles, 41 cartridges, a hand-held communication radio, and fetish objects. Further investigations revealed their involvement in criminal activities and have been on the Nigeria Police Wanted list since 2023,” it said.
“Preliminary investigations further revealed that Ifeanyi Godwin allegedly owned a hotel from proceeds of kidnapping used as an IPOB/ESN operations base.
“Similarly, in Oyo State, troops acting on credible intelligence raided the residence of a suspected kidnap kingpin identified as Bello Chikidawoje, in Bodija Area of Ibadan North LGA.
“The operation led to the recovery of 2 AK-47 rifles, magazines loaded with ammunition, and additional rounds buried inside an animal’s cage. Efforts are underway to apprehend Bello Chikidawoje and dismantle his criminal network.” It said
“In Katsina State, troops responded to a distress call about terrorists blocking the road in Ruma Yargamji, Batsari.
“The swift action by the troops compelled the terrorists to flee, resulting in the recovery of 3 empty AK-47 magazines along their withdrawal route.
“In Kankara LGA, Katsina State, troops acted on intelligence about terrorists planning an attack on commuters returning from the village market.
“Troops confronted the terrorists, leading to the neutralization of one terrorist and the recovery of an AK-47 rifle and ammunition,” it further said.
The statement urged all Nigerians to continue to support troops to further enhance their operational effectiveness.
Troops intercept kidnap kingpins across Anambra, Oyo, Katsina, neutralize terrorists, recover arms
