A statement issued by the Coordinator, Defence Media Operations, John Enenche on Friday in Abuja, revealed that the Nigerian troops known as Operation WHIRL STROKE has let loose about 34 kidnapped victims, arrested suspected kidnappers and recovered a barrage of arsenal in Benue.
Mr Enenche, a major-general, noted that the successful attack was aided by a reliable intelligence on the criminal dealings of the hoodlums operating in Igbom village in Nenzev council ward of Logo Local Government Area.
He further disclosed that the troops of Sector 2 and 4 executed a raid expedition on hideout of the suspected kidnappers at Tomayin village in Logo on July 16, killing their ring leaders.
According to Enenche, the troops were involved in a fire-for-fire face off with the miscreants leading to the killing of one Zwa Ikyegh touted as the supremo as others beat a retreat with massive gunshots wounds.
“The successful encounter led to the rescue of 32 kidnapped victims some of whom have been in captivity for over a month.
“All the rescued kidnapped victims have been reunited with their families in different communities in Logo Local Government Area.
“Troops also recovered one AK 47 rifle, one AK 47 magazine, 6 locally made rifle, one locally-made pistol and a magazine.
“Others include 22 rounds of 7.62mm Special ammunition, 2 cartridges, 2 motorcycles and some Charms and the hideout has been equally destroyed,” he said.
Mr Enenche said the troops also responded to a distress call on another kidnapping incident at Austoma in Mbanema Council ward of Ukum Local Government Area.
He said the troops promptly mobilised to the scene leading to the arrest of two suspects.
The suspects were identified as Sealemun and Orduem both of whom are linked to late Terugwa Igbagwa Aka Orjondu.
He maintained that the troops retrieved one motorcycle which the kidnappers were using to perpetrate criminal acts.
According to him, the bandits are at present, under interrogation after which they will be discharged to the Nigeria Police for another phase of action.
“Troops have continued to dominate the area with patrols and ambushes while normalcy has since been restored in the general area,” he said.
