Nigerian Troops Smash Armed Groups in South-East, Rescue Hostages
A recent operation by the Nigerian Army and Joint Task Force, South-East, has dealt a significant blow to two armed groups operating in the region. Dubbed "Operation UDO KA," the military operation successfully neutralized four members of the groups and rescued 14 hostages.
According to Lt.-Col. Jonah Unuakhalu, Acting Deputy Director of 82 Division Army Public Relations, the operation also clamped down on illegal oil bunkers in the area. "The troops’ superior firepower forced the criminals to flee in disarray," Unuakhalu said, describing the encounter between troops and the armed groups on October 22.
During the operation, troops recovered several items, including two black-colored Lexus Jeeps, a pump-action gun, and three cartridges. On October 21, troops deployed at FOB Lilu encountered a terrorist group after detonating improvised explosive devices (IEDs) planted along the supply route. The troops successfully neutralized two terrorists and recovered a pump-action short gun, a solar CCTV camera, and several IEDs.
In another operation, troops stormed a hideout of one of the groups in the Enugwu Umuonyia community in Aguata council area of Anambra on October 9. The group members were overwhelmed, and the troops recovered a cache of arms and logistics, including 78 rounds of ammunition, 13 rounds of 9mm ammunition, and six vehicles.
The spokesman also noted that troops carried out an ambush operation in Lilu community in Anambra on October 10, deterring irredentist freedom of action. In the same vein, troops rescued an expatriate and three staff of DATUM Construction Company in Ohafia LGA of Abia and Umu-Abor Lilu in Anambra.
Furthermore, 10 sports journalists who were earlier kidnapped on their way to Uyo were rescued on October 10. During the rescue operation, troops arrested one suspected kidnapper and recovered three SUV jeeps. The rescue operations were conducted in various locations, including Anambra, Imo, and Abia states.
The successful operation by the Nigerian Army and Joint Task Force, South-East, is a significant step towards maintaining peace and security in the region. The rescue of hostages and neutralization of armed groups is a testament to the military’s commitment to protecting the lives and properties of citizens.