In continuation of the aggressive clearance operation to rid criminal elements out of the North-Central region of Nigeria, troops of Operation WHIRL STROKE have killed one key kidnap syndicate leader and rescued 34 kidnapped victims at Tomayin village in Logo LGA of Benue State

The Coordinator of Defence Media Operations, John Enenche, in a statement issued on Friday, July 17, confirmed that the operation was carried out following credible intelligence on the activities of a notorious gang operating in the area of Igbom village in Nenzev council ward of the State.

Enenche said that the troops of Sector 2 and 4, on July 16, carried out a raid operation on the suspected kidnappers’ den at Tomayin village, where the soldiers engaged the criminals in a gunfight forcing them to flee in disarray into bushes.

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Speaking further, the Coordinator said the troops killed one Zwa Ikyegh identified as the ring leader of the gang, while others escaped with various degrees of gunshots wounds.

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He operation led to the rescue of 32 kidnapped victims, some of whom have been in captivity for over a month.

All the rescued kidnapped victims have been reunited with their families in different communities in Logo LGA. 

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Troops also recovered one AK 47 rifle, one AK 47 magazine, 6 locally made rifle, one locally-made pistol and a magazine. Others include 22 rounds of 7.62mm Special ammunition, 2 cartridges, 2 motorcycles and some Charms. The hideout has been equally destroyed.

In a similar operation, troops of Sector 2 deployed at Gbise in Katsina State, Ala LGA and Zaki Biam in Ukum LGA of Benue State responded to a distress call on another kidnapping incident at Austoma in Mbanema Council ward of Ukum LGA, Eneche said.

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Troops promptly mobilized to the scene leading to the arrest of 2 suspects identified as Mr Sealemun and Orduem both of whom are linked to late Terugwa Igbagwa Aka Orjondu. 

The gallant troops recovered one motorcycle which the kidnappers were using for their heinous crimes. 

The Defence Coordinator said that the suspects are currently undergoing investigation after which they will be handed over to the Nigeria Police for further necessary action. 

Enenche assured the residents of the areas that normalcy will be restored soon as the troops will continue to dominate the area with patrols and ambushes.

The Military High Command congratulated the gallant troops for their professionalism and encouraged them to intensify the onslaught against the enemies of the country.