RismadarVoice Reporters
October 2, 2026
Troops of Operation UDO KA have rescued three kidnap victims and dismantled a suspected criminal hideout in Anambra State, recovering firearms, ammunition and other equipment.
The operation was carried out by troops of the 185 Battalion in collaboration with members of the Anambra Vigilante Group as part of ongoing security operations in the South-East.
According to the Nigerian Army, the three victims had been abducted around the Osakwa area of Ihiala Local Government Area before security personnel launched an operation that led to their rescue.
The Army said the operation followed the arrest of a suspected kidnapper, identified as Sunday Obi, during a security operation on October 1.
It said information obtained during its investigation subsequently led troops to a suspected camp in Abator, Ogbaru Local Government Area.
The military said troops moved into the area and encountered suspected members of the criminal group, who fled during the operation.
Security personnel subsequently searched the camp and recovered two AK-47 rifles with magazines, three pump-action guns and three locally fabricated guns.
The Army also reported recovering 62 rounds of 7.62mm NATO ammunition, 149 rounds of 7.62mm Special ammunition, two cartridges and materials suspected to be connected with the production of improvised explosive devices.
Other items recovered included a solar generator, power bank, car battery, two motorcycle batteries, two solar panels and two mobile phones.
The military said the recovered items would form part of further investigations into kidnapping and other criminal activities in the area.
Operation UDO KA said follow-up operations were continuing to identify and apprehend other suspects and individuals believed to be supporting criminal networks.
The Army added that troops would continue working with other security agencies and local stakeholders to dismantle criminal camps and improve security across communities in the South-East.
