Troops of the 82 Division of the Nigerian Army, under Operation UDO KA, say they uncovered an improvised explosive device and recovered ransom cash during operations in Enugu.

This was disclosed in an operational report released on Tuesday.

The report said troops, with the 103 Battalion and the air component, conducted clearance operations in Ajali Forest, Ezeagu council area.

It said the troops targeted enclaves of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network.

According to the report, troops discovered an anti-tank improvised explosive device along the axis during the operation.

“The IED was recovered to a safe area by an Explosive Ordnance Disposal team after three failed detonation attempts,” the report stated.

It added that troops continued forest clearance using bulldozers and chainsaws to deny criminal elements freedom of action.

“In a related development, troops at Adani, Uzo-Uwani Local Government Area, conducted a raid based on actionable intelligence.

“Security information indicated that ransom for a kidnapped victim was electronically tracked to a location near the troops’ deployment area. Troops swiftly mobilised and apprehended a suspect’s brother at the scene,” it said.

The report added that further exploitation led to the recovery of a pump-action rifle and N2 million from the suspect’s residence.

It said the suspect and recovered items had been handed over to the relevant authorities for further investigation and action.

“All operations were conducted successfully without incident,” the report added. 

(NAN)