Wednesday, July 10, 2024 - Troops of the Nigerian Army deployed for counter-terrorism operations across the country in a series of coordinated operations have intercepted and thwarted the nefarious activities of notorious kidnap kingpins in Anambra, Oyo, and Katsina States, dealing a significant blow to criminal elements in the region.
The Army in a statement on Wednesday, July 10, 2024, said one of
the suspects, Ifeanyi Godwin, built a hotel from the proceeds of
kidnapping
“In Anambra State, troops on patrol successfully intercepted and
arrested two suspected IPOB/ESN members identified as Ifeanyi Godwin and Uche
Onuoha, in a Toyota Highlander SUV, near Umunze, Orumba South Local Government
Area (LGA),” the statement read.
"The suspects were found in possession of 2 pump-action
rifles, 41 cartridges, a hand-held communication radio, and fetish objects
"Further investigations revealed their involvement in
criminal activities and have been on the Nigeria Police Wanted list since 2023.
Preliminary investigations further revealed that Ifeanyi Godwin allegedly owned
a hotel from proceeds of kidnapping used as an IPOB/ESN operations base
"Similarly, in Oyo State, troops acting on credible
intelligence raided the residence of a suspected kidnap kingpin identified as
Bello Chikidawoje, in Bodija Area of Ibadan North LGA.
"The operation led to the recovery of 2 AK-47 rifles,
magazines loaded with ammunition, and additional rounds buried inside an
animal's cage. Efforts are underway to apprehend Bello Chikidawoje and
dismantle his criminal network.
In a separate operation in Katsina State, troops responded to a
distress call about terrorists blocking the road in Ruma Yargamji, Batsari. The
swift action by the troops compelled the terrorists to flee, resulting in the
recovery of 3 empty AK-47 magazines along their withdrawal route.
In Kankara LGA, Katsina State, troops acted on intelligence about
terrorists planning an attack on commuters returning from the village market
"Troops confronted the terrorists, leading to the
neutralization of one terrorist and the recovery of an AK-47 rifle and
ammunition. The decisive actions of the troops prevented a potential attack and
disrupted the terrorists' plans
"The successful operations point to the commitment of
Nigerian security forces in combating criminal elements and ensuring the safety
and security of communities across the country
“We urge all Nigerians to continue to support their troops to
further enhance their operational effectiveness.”
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