By Emmanuel Abi Couson
Nigeria army troops of 5 Battalion, have neutralised members of a criminal gang responsible for the killing of four soldiers and the abduction of two Korean expatriates in Kalaogbokolo, Ahoada West Local Government Area of Rivers State on December 12, 2023.
The Army said the gang was also behind the abduction of two Korean expatriates working for an oil serving Daewoo company, after killing the soldiers providing security for them in the same location.
The operation was disclosed in a statement signed by Lieutenant Colonel Danjuma Jonah Danjuma, Acting Deputy Director, 6 Division Army Public Relations.
Acting on credible intelligence, troops conducted a coordinated cordon-and-search operation that uncovered a cache of arms and ammunition, including one AK-47 rifle, one Fabrique Nationale rifle, one pump-action gun, two locally made rifles, three AK-47 magazines, one FN magazine, three rounds of 7.62mm (Special), and 13 rounds of 7.62mm (NATO).
According to the statement, two members of the gang were apprehended during the operation. While being moved for further investigation, the suspects attempted to escape into the bush. A long pursuit ensued, resulting in their neutralization.
The Nigerian Army emphasized that criminals involved in such heinous acts would face dire consequences, regardless of the time it takes to track them down.
The Division reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding lives and property in the region and urged the public to continue providing actionable intelligence to aid security efforts.
“This successful operation underscores the military’s resolve to bring perpetrators of violence to justice and restore peace in affected communities,” the statement said.