Nigerian troops recover IED, N2m ransom cash, and arrest a suspected kidnapper during operations in Enugu State

Nigerian Army has announced a series of operational successes in Enugu State, including the recovery of an improvised explosive device, N2 million ransom cash, and the arrest of a suspected kidnapper during coordinated military operations.

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The recovery were carried out by troops of the 82 Division under Operation UDO KA, according to a statement issued on Tuesday in Abuja.

In one of the operations, troops of the 82 Division Garrison, alongside personnel from the 103 Battalion and the Air Component, conducted clearance missions in forested areas believed to be used as hideouts by criminal elements.

The operation targeted enclaves linked to the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network in Ajali Forest, located in Ezeagu Local Government Area.

During the exercise, troops discovered an anti-tank improvised explosive device along operational routes, which was later safely recovered by an Explosive Ordnance Disposal team after failed detonation attempts.

Military sources said bulldozers and chainsaws were deployed to clear forest areas and deny suspected criminals operational cover.

In a separate intelligence-led raid in Adani, Uzo-Uwani Local Government Area, troops tracked ransom money linked to a kidnapped victim to a nearby location.

Security operatives subsequently arrested a suspect’s brother at the scene during the operation.

Further searches led to the recovery of a pump-action rifle and N2 million believed to be part of the ransom payment.

Authorities confirmed that all recovered items and suspects have been handed over for further investigation and prosecution.

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The Nigerian Army stated that all operations were conducted successfully without casualties among troops.