Fear and drama swept through parts of the South-East as Nigerian Army troops launched a fierce crackdown on suspected kidnappers and criminal gangs, rescuing victims, arresting suspects, and uncovering shocking evidence in multiple operations across Imo, Enugu, and Cross River States.
The daring military operations, carried out between Friday and Saturday, reportedly left criminals scrambling for cover after troops swooped in on hideouts following intelligence reports about rising kidnapping and criminal activities in the region.
Kidnappers’ Forest Hideout Busted in Imo
In a dramatic operation in Imo State, troops attached to the 34 Artillery Brigade and the Forward Operating Base (FOB) in Izombe, working alongside local security operatives, stormed a forest hideout linked to kidnappers operating along the Oguta–Owerri road.
Sources revealed that soldiers tracked the criminals to the dense Okohia Umueju forest, where kidnapped victims were allegedly being held captive.
Sadly, while the rescue operation succeeded in freeing three victims, tragedy struck as one captive reportedly lost their life after being killed by the kidnappers while attempting to escape.
The armed suspects reportedly fled in panic after confronting advancing troops, abandoning valuables believed to be linked to their illegal activities. Security operatives recovered nearly ₦1 million in cash suspected to be ransom money, alongside mobile phones and power banks.
Election Venue Turns Nightmare in Cross River
What was meant to be a peaceful political gathering reportedly turned into a scene straight out of an action movie in Cross River State after suspected kidnappers allegedly invaded an election venue in Yakurr Local Government Area.
Eyewitness reports claimed armed men stormed a hotel in Ekori during a party primary election, abducting an electoral official in a shocking twist.
According to reports, the victim was allegedly forced to transfer money before troops swiftly intervened, intercepting the suspects and rescuing the official before the situation spiraled further out of control.
Three suspects were reportedly arrested, while one armed gang member escaped into nearby bushes with sensitive materials. Authorities also recovered the vehicle allegedly used in the operation, while investigations continue to track down fleeing accomplices.
Shocking Discovery in Enugu: 85-Year-Old Among Arrested Suspects
In another eyebrow-raising operation in Enugu State, troops under Operation Eastern Sanity II reportedly raided a residence in Achi Town believed to be linked to cult-related activities.
Security forces allegedly uncovered motorcycles and locally-made gunpowder during the raid, leading to the arrest of three suspects — including an unexpected 85-year-old man and two women.
The military says it remains committed to flushing out kidnappers, cult groups, and criminal networks terrorizing communities across the South-East and nearby regions.
With kidnappers growing bolder and security forces tightening the noose, many Nigerians are now asking one big question: Is this finally the beginning of the end for these criminal gangs?
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