Army rescues kidnap victim in Abia
May 15, 2026 2:02 pm
Soldiers during shooting exercise. Photo: Army
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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 push against criminal groups.
A statement by Assistant Director Army Public Relations attached to brigade Captain Mazinho Attah, on Friday stated that the soldiers from the 145 Battalion, working 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 said the victim was abducted earlier by armed men, adding that the rescued victim and some arrested suspects are in custody for further investigation as troops work to dismantle other criminal networks in the area.
The statement read, “The operation was conducted under operation EASTERN SANITY II. The troops have maintained a heavy 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 operations target IPOB/ESN and other criminal groups, and also aim to curb the unauthorized use of explosives. In Aba, troops at Osisioma responded to a shooting incident on Brass Street in GRA. They found the body of an unidentified man by the roadside after he was reportedly attacked by gunmen. Emergency responders evacuated the body, and investigations to apprehend the attackers are ongoing.
“Coordinated night patrols and ‘stand-to’ operations were also carried out in strategic locations, including Isiugu, Akanu-Ukwu, Ameakpo, Nguzu, Arochukwu, Bende, and adjoining communities. Security officials said the areas remained calm during the period under review.
“This successful operation underscores the Nigerian Army’s unwavering commitment to neutralizing threats, safeguarding communities, and ensuring peace and stability across the region.”
The Army urged residents to support security operations by reporting individuals involved in separatist activities and rejecting divisive ideologies.
Ogbonnaya Ikokwu is a journalist at Punch Newspapers with 17 years of professional experience. He has served as a correspondent covering Abia State since 2015 and focuses on governance, human rights, justice, and equity. Ogbonnaya’s work reflects strong organizational skills, editorial discipline, and a commitment to objective and responsible journalism.
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