Troops of the Nigerian Army have dismantled multiple kidnappers’ hideouts in Edo North Senatorial District, arresting 13 suspects and recovering weapons, drugs, and other incriminating items.
The information was disclosed on Friday by the acting Assistant Director of Army Public Relations for 4 Brigade Nigerian Army, Capt. Kennedy Anyanwu.
Anyanwu explained that the operation, conducted on Feb. 4, involved 4 Brigade troops working alongside the Nigerian Air Force, Nigeria Police Force, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, and Edo State Security Corps.
The mission focused on Osara, Auchi, and Okpella communities in Etsako West Local Government Area.
He said the clearance operation, code-named Operation IGBO DANU 1, led to the apprehension of eight individuals suspected of kidnapping and drug trafficking.
“Items recovered included a pump-action gun, live cartridges, a locally made pistol, a POS machine, cutlasses, mobile phones, a digital camera, codeine syrup, weighing scales, substances suspected to be cannabis sativa, tramadol and ice, as well as N87,550 cash,” Anyanwu noted.
“In a related operation, the troops also combed Aviele Forest, a known criminal corridor in the area, arresting five additional suspects and recovering two motorcycles, phones and a power bank.
“The suspects and recovered exhibits were handed over to the Edo State Police Command for further investigation and prosecution,” he added.
Commenting on the operations, Brig.-Gen. Ahmed Balogun, Commander of 4 Brigade, praised the cooperation among the security agencies and warned that Edo State would remain hostile to kidnappers and other criminals.
Balogun reiterated the Brigade’s dedication to safeguarding lives and property, while expressing gratitude to the General Officer Commanding 2 Division, Maj.-Gen. Chinedu Nnebeife, for his strategic guidance and support.
