Troops of Nigerian Army deployed in Imo State under 82 division, have successfully trailed and arrested four suspects connected to the kidnap of retired Major General Richard Duru.

An Army statement said, “The suspects, when nabbed, had attempted to bribe the troops with the sum of Five Million Naira (N5,000,000), but was turned down by the troops.

“The troops rather seized the bribe money, totaling N5,048,105, along with three vehicles, six laptops and a cash-counting machine.

“In Anambra State, troops apprehended a notorious member of the Indigenous People of Biafra/Eastern Security Network (IPOB/ESN), Sunday Ofordimze Asika, also known as Aboy Ekwensu.

“The suspect, who has been on the security agencies’ watchlist, is part of a criminal syndicate terrorizing citizens of Uga Npologu and Ezinifite communities in Aguta Local Government Area.

“Recovered items during this operation included six cartridges, five machetes, a laptop, a vehicle, and assorted charms.

“In Cross River State, troops conducting waterway patrols have intercepted an automated wooden boat used by armed criminals at Ikang village in Bakassi Local Government Area of the state

“The suspects who fled upon sighting the troops abandoned a pump-action rifle, three cartridges, a 40 HP boat engine, and the sum of Fifty Thousand Five Hundred Naira (N50,500).

“Troops have recovered the abandoned items.

“Similarly, troops of the Nigerian Army have neutralized several terrorists, and recovered a significant cache of arms, ammunition, as well as terrorists’ logistics in Borno and Yobe states

“These operations have in a significant measure, dealt a blow to terrorists’ activities in the affected communities.

“On 27 August 2024, acting on credible intelligence, troops ambushed Boko Haram terrorists at Logomani village in Ngala Local Government Area of Borno State.

“In the ensuing exchange of fire, the troops neutralized five terrorists and recovered one AK-47 rifle, a magazine, and two bicycles.

“In another operation in Gwoza Local Government Area, 11 Boko Haram fighters, along with their family members, voluntarily surrendered to the troops.

“The terrorists stated that they could no longer withstand the firepower of the Nigerian Army, prompting their decision to surrender.

“In Yobe State, troops laid an ambush for Boko Haram terrorists logistics supply route at Wulle village in Gujba Local Government Area.

“During the confrontation, two terrorists were neutralized by the superior firepower of the troops.

“Recovered items from the scene included one FN rifle, a magazine, and a bicycle.

“These operations highlight the Nigerian Army’s commitment to ensuring the safety and security of the nation and its citizens.

“The troops remain vigilant and continue to execute their duties with unwavering resolve, as they professionally serve the nation,” he said. (Vanguard)