Crime

Soldier’s Killing in Abia: See the total numbers of people arrested for killing Soldiers in Abia – DHQ

Published by Tope Fakinlede on June 13th, 2024.

Soldier’s Killing in Abia: See the total numbers of people arrested for killing Soldiers in Abia – DHQ

Over 100 Suspects Arrested in Connection with Soldier’s Killing in Abia – DHQ

The Military announced on Thursday that over 100 suspects have been arrested following the killing of five soldiers at a checkpoint by IPOB/ESN terrorists in Abia State. Those found innocent have been released, while those deemed culpable remain in detention to assist with ongoing investigations.

Major General Edward Buba, Director of Defence Media Operations, stated, “Troops conducted several intelligence-based operations, leading to the discovery and destruction of multiple IPOB/ESN terrorist camps, including one in Igboro Forest, Arochukwu LGA, Abia State.”

Buba explained that several arrests were made during these raids, with those found guilty still in detention. “The intelligence gathered from these operations is valuable,” he added. “Those in custody are helping troops identify other camps, sleeper cells, and key individuals involved in terrorist activities.”

In the past week, troops of Operation Udoka have neutralized 13 terrorists, arrested 25 violent extremists, and rescued 15 kidnapped hostages. They also recovered an array of weapons and ammunition, including one AK47 rifle, one fabricated rifle, four Dane guns, two pump-action guns, two fabricated Beretta pistols, one double-barrel gun, one short Dane gun, five locally made pistols, one locally fabricated RPG tube, one fabricated artillery gun, ten fabricated artillery bombs, 42 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, eight rounds of 7.62 x 54mm ammunition, 62 live cartridges, 21 spent cartridges, one ECOME HH radio, one vehicle, and one motorcycle.

Operations in various locations, including Obingwa and Anambra West LGAs in Abia and Anambra States, as well as Isiala Mbano and Ohaji/Egbema LGAs in Imo State, led to the arrest of suspected IPOB/ESN members and the foiling of kidnap attempts. On June 3, 2024, troops raided a suspected IPOB/ESN shrine and the palace of Eze Ngozi Obia in Obingwa LGA, arresting 11 suspected extremists, including the Eze, and recovering weapons and ammunition.

From June 4 to 9, 2024, troops conducted patrols and operations that resulted in the arrest of additional suspects and the recovery of more weapons. Notably, on June 4, troops engaged violent extremists/kidnappers in Anambra-West LGA, neutralizing two extremists and rescuing two hostages. Similar encounters occurred in Ohaozara and Arochukwu LGAs in Ebonyi and Abia States, and Orlu LGA in Imo State.

Governor of Kaduna State, Senator Uba Sani, expressed his elation at the development, praising the bravery, proactivity, and efficiency of the troops involved. He commended Major General Saraso for his leadership and lauded the troops for their comprehensive victory.

Governor Sani reaffirmed his unwavering support for the security forces in Kaduna State and emphasized the government’s continued collaboration. Additionally, due to the injuries sustained by some fleeing bandits, the Kaduna State government has advised residents to report individuals with suspicious injuries to security agencies immediately.