Troops of the Nigerian Army’s 63 Brigade/Sector 1 Joint Task Force Operation Delta Safe carried out a successful operation against kidnappers in Delta State.
They were assisted by a tracker team from the Delta State Government House, Asaba, during the mission.
The joint forces engaged the criminals in a fierce shootout at Aniocha North Local Government Area, where three kidnappers were neutralised.
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The operation, carried out on Tuesday, led to the rescue of a kidnapped woman held hostage in Otulu Forest.
According to Army authorities, the successful mission followed credible intelligence and days of surveillance.
“Troops had been tracking the kidnappers since last week after receiving information about their activities around Issele Uku,” the Army said.
“The criminals had already collected ransom from the victims’ families, but our forces were determined to bring them down in their hideout.”
During the 30-minute gun battle, troops killed three members of the gang and recovered an AK-47 rifle, 52 rounds of ammunition, four mobile phones, a power bank, and a cutlass, also seized was N2,336,000, believed to be ransom money abandoned by the suspects.
Unfortunately, one soldier sustained a gunshot wound to the leg, while the rescued woman also suffered injuries prior to her release.
Both were taken to the Federal Medical Centre, Asaba, where they are receiving treatment.
Brigadier General M.A. Shonibare, Commander of 63 Brigade, praised the troops’ bravery.
“This operation is part of our commitment to rid Delta State of criminals and ensure peace in our communities,” he said.
