Army uncovers hideout of gang linked to killing of soldiers, kidnapping of expatriates in Rivers

Troops of the 5 Battalion, Nigerian Army, have uncovered the hideout of a gang responsible for the killing of four soldiers and the abduction of two Korean expatriates in Rivers State.

The expatriates, staff of Daewoo Company, were kidnapped on December 12, 2023, at Kalaogbokolo in Ahoada West Local Government Area.

In a statement issued on Monday, the acting Deputy Director of 6 Division Army Public Relations, Lieutenant Colonel Danjuma Jonah Danjuma, revealed that the operation was conducted following credible intelligence about the criminals’ return to the community.

Danjuma said that during the search operation, troops recovered several arms and ammunition. He added that two members of the gang were captured, while others who attempted to flee into the bush were neutralised after a prolonged pursuit.

The Army reiterated its commitment to ensuring that criminals involved in such treacherous acts face justice, regardless of how long it takes.

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The statement further appealed to members of the public to provide credible information about the activities of criminals in their communities to aid ongoing operations.

The statement read: “Troops conducted cordon and search operations, which led to the recovery of several arms and ammunition. These include one AK-47 rifle, one Fabrique Nationale rifle, and one pump-action gun.

“Other recoveries include two locally made rifles, three AK-47 magazines, one FN magazine, as well as three rounds of 7.62mm (Special) and 13 rounds of 7.62mm (NATO), among others.

“Additionally, two members of the criminal gang were apprehended during the operation. While exploiting the area for further discoveries, the suspects attempted to escape into the bush and were neutralised after a long pursuit.

“The 6 Division, Nigerian Army, wishes to restate that no matter how long it takes, criminals involved in such dastardly acts will pay a heavy price for their actions.

“The general public is reassured of the Division’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property. Members of the public are please enjoined to continue providing actionable intelligence on the activities of such criminal gangs to security agencies.”