Troops of the Nigerian Army under Operation UDO KA have rescued a kidnap victim in Abia State as part of ongoing coordinated security operations aimed at curbing criminal activity across the region.

According to a statement issued on Friday by the Assistant Director of Army Public Relations, Capt. Mazinho Attah, soldiers of the 145 Battalion, working alongside Nigeria Police Force units including the Anti-Cultism Unit and operatives under Operation Crush, carried out an intelligence-driven mission in Umuahia that led to the rescue of the victim, identified as Onyebuchi Nwaoha.

The statement noted that the victim had earlier been abducted by armed men before troops tracked him down during the operation.

It added that some suspects were also arrested during the exercise and are currently in custody as investigations continue to dismantle other criminal networks operating in the area.

The Army explained that the operation was conducted under Operation EASTERN SANITY II, adding that troops have sustained a strong presence along major roads and vulnerable communities across the state.

Areas covered include the ABSU–Okigwe–Ihube axis, the Enugu–Port Harcourt Expressway, as well as communities in Umunneochi, Bende, Isiala Ngwa, Ukwa East, Ukwa West, Umuahia, and Arochukwu Local Government Areas.

The statement also said the operations are targeting IPOB/ESN and other criminal groups, as well as addressing the illegal use of explosives in parts of the region.

In Aba, troops stationed at Osisioma reportedly responded to a shooting incident on Brass Street in the GRA area, where they recovered the body of an unidentified man believed to have been attacked by gunmen. The remains were evacuated by emergency responders, while investigations are ongoing to apprehend those responsible.

Security forces also carried out coordinated night patrols and stand-to operations in strategic locations including Isiugu, Akanu-Ukwu, Ameakpo, Nguzu, Arochukwu, and other surrounding communities, with officials confirming that the areas remained calm during the period under review.

The Army described the operation as part of its commitment under Operation UDO KA to neutralize threats, protect communities, and maintain peace and stability across the South-East.

Residents were urged to support ongoing security efforts by reporting suspicious activities and avoiding involvement in separatist or criminal activities.