Nigerian Army Arrests Notorious IPOB/ESN Commander, Rescues 11 Kidnap Victims, Neutralizes Terrorists and Recovers Weapons

Nigerian Army Arrests Notorious IPOB/ESN Commander, Rescues 11 Kidnap Victims, Neutralizes Terrorists and Recovers Weapons

In a series of coordinated operations across multiple theatres, Nigerian Army troops have recorded significant successes in the ongoing fight against criminal elements, bandits, terrorists, and secessionist groups in the last 24 hours.

Troops of 34 Artillery Brigade in a joint operation with sister services and other security agencies, arrested a notorious IPOB/ESN criminal kingpin, Ifeanyi Eze Okorienta (aka Gentle de Yahoo), at his hideout in Aku-Ihube, Okigwe Local Government Area of Imo State. The operation led to the recovery of one English pistol, 120 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, 25 rounds of 7.62mm NATO, one cartridge, six mobile phones, military and police uniforms, and a German flag. Troops also uncovered a workshop where stolen vehicles were dismantled for resale, in addition to destroying 10 motorcycles found at the scene.

Similarly, troops rescued a total of 11 kidnap victims in Adamawa and Katsina States. In Madagali Local Government Area of Adamawa State, 5 kidnapped persons were freed and reunited with their families. In Katsina State, another 5 kidnapped victims were rescued at Kukasheka Ward in Malumfashi Local Government Area, while two others were rescued in Lokoja Local Government Area of Kogi State.

Troops also recorded notable operational breakthroughs against terrorists and insurgents. In Katsina State, soldiers neutralized 2 terrorists in separate encounters, recovering an AK-47 rifle, ammunition, and a motorcycle. In Benue State, troops neutralized 1 violent extremist, seizing a mobile phone and assorted charms.

In addition, 11 suspects were arrested in different locations across Benue, Kogi, and Kaduna States for armed robbery, gunrunning, and violent extremist activities. Troops of the Nigerian Army also recovered 40 rustled cattle in Plateau State, which were returned to their rightful owners.

These operational successes were achieved through sustained collaboration between the Nigerian Army, sister services and other security agencies. The Nigerian Army remains committed to creating a safer environment that will boost agricultural activities in line with the Federal Government’s commitment to food security.