By By Elizabeth Ugbo
Nigerian Army Conducts Successful Operations in Edo State
The Nigerian Army’s 4 Brigade under 2 Division, in collaboration with the Edo State Security Corps, neutralised a notorious kidnapper, arrested another suspect, and rescued four abducted victims in Edo State. The operations, carried out on March 3, 2026, occurred in Warake Forest, Auchi Local Government Area, and Ujemen in Esan West Local Government Area.
Troops Respond to Gunshots in Warake Forest
During a night patrol, troops heard gunshots in Warake Forest. They immediately launched Operation IGBO DANU 1, aggressively pursuing the criminals while minimizing firearm use. The troops neutralised a notorious kidnapper terrorizing Auchi and its environs. Superior firepower forced remaining criminals to abandon their victims and flee.
Items recovered from the neutralised suspect included ₦650,000, mobile phones, a power bank, and footwear.
Arrest and Shrine Discovery in Ujemen
In a separate raid, troops collaborated with the Edo State Security Corps to target a suspected kidnapper’s hideout in Ujemen. They arrested 39-year-old Omogbegha Solomon and discovered a shrine containing charms and photographs of various individuals. The shrine was destroyed, and the suspect was handed over to the Nigeria Police Force, Ekpoma Division, for further investigation.
Rescued Victims Reunited With Families
The Nigerian Army rescued four kidnapped victims unhurt during the operations. They include:
- Stella Abbas, 29
- Tina Ododa, 19
- Razak Rashid, 27
- Mutanibi Kalifa, 16
All victims were safely reunited with their families following the rescue.
Army Commander Praises Troops
Brigadier-General Ahmed Balogun, Commander of 4 Brigade, commended the troops for their bravery. He urged them to sustain the aggressive onslaught against criminal elements, following directives from Major General Chinedu Nnebeife, General Officer Commanding 2 Division.
Balogun reassured Edo residents of the brigade’s commitment to protecting lives and property across the state.
Conclusion
The Nigerian Army’s swift action under Operation IGBO DANU 1 highlights its commitment to combatting kidnapping and enhancing security in Edo State. Residents are encouraged to cooperate with security forces to sustain peace.
