Troops of the 4 Brigade Nigerian Army, operating under Operation WABAIZIGAN, have arrested a suspected kidnapper and recovered an AK-47 rifle and ammunition in Edo State.

The suspect, identified as Olamide Oyeniyi, was arrested on September 12 at Obaretin Community in Ikpoba-Okha Local Government Area of the state.

The arrest was made during a targeted operation along the Benin-Sapele Road aimed at disrupting criminal activities and protecting major transportation routes in the area.

The Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, 4 Brigade Nigerian Army, Benin, Kennedy Anyanwu, disclosed the development in a statement on Sunday.

He said troops recovered one AK-47 rifle, one magazine and eight rounds of 7.62mm Special ammunition from the suspect.

Other items recovered included a Tecno mobile phone, two bags, a torchlight, a music box and assorted charms.

Anyanwu said the suspect and the recovered items remained in the custody of the troops for further investigation.

He added that efforts were underway to establish the suspect’s links with other criminal elements and determine his possible involvement in kidnapping and related activities along the Benin-Sapele route.

The Army said the operation was part of sustained efforts to deny criminal elements freedom of action and protect communities and critical transportation corridors in Edo State.

It also said it would continue to work with other security agencies to strengthen security across the state.