Soldiers arrest kidnapper, rescue victim in Imo State

The Nigerian Army has announced that its soldiers rescued a kidnap victim and recovered ransom money during a raid on a kidnap gang's hideout in Imo State, in the South-east of Nigeria.

Olabisi Ayeni, the spokesperson for the 82 Division of the Nigerian Army, shared this news in a statement on Sunday.

Lieutenant Colonel Ayeni said a suspected kidnapper was arrested during the operation on 17 July.

Troops from the 34 Artillery Brigade, under operation Udo Ka, carried out the raid in Obinwanne Umuaka, Njaba Local Government Area of Imo State.

"The operation, conducted on 17 July 2026, resulted in the arrest of a suspect, recovery of ransom money, and seizure of a vehicle believed to have been used in the abduction," he said.

During the raid, security forces found a bag that had been used to carry ransom payments. This bag was left behind in a nearby bush, suggesting that the money had been shared among the gang members.

Mr Ayeni mentioned that a further search of the hideout led to the recovery of a black Lexus saloon car, which was likely used during the kidnapping.

The army spokesperson also noted that mobile phones, identity documents, and cash amounting to N298,200, believed to be part of the ransom, were found at the hideout during the operation.

"The rescued victim later confirmed that the arrested individual was involved in the kidnapping. Preliminary findings also showed that the suspect helped the gang by providing his vehicle to the main actor and received part of the ransom," he added.

Mr Ayeni said the Nigerian Army has handed over all recovered items and the arrested suspect to the State Security Service. They will continue the investigation and try to track down other members of the gang who are still on the run.

"This successful operation shows how effective intelligence-driven missions can be and highlights the ongoing teamwork among security agencies in the fight against kidnapping and violent crimes in the South-east region," he said.