ARMY RESCUES KIDNAP VICTIM IN ABIA

By:Tajudeen Aminat
Troops of the Nigerian Army’s 14 Brigade under Operation UDO KA have rescued a kidnap victim and intensified security operations across Abia State in a coordinated crackdown on criminal groups.
In a statement issued on Friday, Captain Mazinho Attah, Assistant Director of Army Public Relations attached to the brigade, said troops of the 145 Battalion, in collaboration with Operation Crush and the Anti-Cultism Unit of the Nigeria Police Force, carried out an intelligence-led operation in Umuahia that led to the rescue of Mr. Onyebuchi Nwaoha.
He explained that the victim had earlier been abducted by armed men, adding that the rescued victim and some arrested suspects are currently in custody as investigations continue to dismantle other criminal networks operating in the area.
According to the statement, the operation was conducted under Operation EASTERN SANITY II, with troops maintaining a strong presence along major routes and vulnerable communities, including the ABSU–Okigwe–Ihube Road, the Enugu–Port Harcourt Expressway, and parts of Umunneochi, Bende, Isiala Ngwa, Ukwa East, Ukwa West, Umuahia, and Arochukwu Local Government Areas.
The Army said the operations are targeting IPOB/ESN elements and other criminal groups while also working to curb the illegal use of explosives.
In Aba, troops stationed at Osisioma reportedly responded to a shooting incident on Brass Street in the GRA, where they discovered the body of an unidentified man believed to have been attacked by gunmen. Emergency responders later evacuated the body, while investigations to apprehend those responsible are ongoing.
The statement added that coordinated night patrols and “stand-to” operations were also carried out in strategic locations including Isiugu, Akanu-Ukwu, Ameakpo, Nguzu, Arochukwu, Bende, and neighbouring communities, with security officials confirming that the areas remained calm during the period under review.
The Army said the successful operation reflects its commitment to neutralising threats, protecting communities, and ensuring peace and stability across the region.
Residents were also urged to support ongoing security efforts by reporting individuals involved in separatist activities and rejecting divisive ideologies.
