Troops of the Joint Task Force South East, Operation UDO KA, have intensified operations against terrorist and criminal networks in the region, destroying a suspected terrorist hideout and rescuing three kidnapped victims in Anambra State.

The operation was carried out by troops of 185 Battalion in collaboration with the Anambra Vigilante Group following the abduction of three persons around the Osakwa General Area of Ihiala Local Government Area.

The victims were successfully rescued, while troops conducted a snap operation that led to the arrest of a suspected kidnapper identified as Sunday Obi.

During interrogation, the suspect reportedly provided information that enabled the troops to locate the group’s camp at Abator in Ogbaru Local Government Area, across the Isieke waterside.

Acting on the intelligence, the troops crossed the waterways in canoes and launched an assault on the hideout.

The terrorists reportedly fled after troops engaged them with superior firepower, with some sustaining gunshot wounds.

The operation led to the recovery of two AK-47 rifles with magazines, three pump-action guns, three locally fabricated Dane guns, 62 rounds of 7.62mm NATO ammunition and 149 rounds of 7.62mm Special ammunition.

Troops also recovered two cartridges and materials suspected to be intended for the fabrication of Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs).

Other items recovered from the hideout included a solar generator, power bank, car battery, two motorcycle batteries, two solar panels and two mobile phones.

The Nigerian Army said the recoveries provided additional intelligence on the logistical infrastructure supporting kidnapping and terrorist activities in the area.

It added that follow-up operations are underway to apprehend the fleeing terrorists, their collaborators, logistics suppliers and other facilitators.

The Army said Operation UDO KA would continue coordinated kinetic and intelligence-driven operations aimed at dismantling terrorist enclaves, disrupting criminal logistics and supply chains, and denying criminal elements safe havens across the South East.