A swift security operation by the Nigerian Army has led to the rescue of Mr. Akari Loveday, Special Adviser on Domestic Affairs to the Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC.

Loveday, who was abducted on Friday along the Ayakoro Community waterways in Ogbia Local Government Area of Bayelsa, regained freedom on Sunday following a joint effort involving the Nigerian Army, Navy, Department of State Services, and the Police.

Spokesman for the Nigerian Army 6 Division, Port Harcourt, Lt.-Col. Danjuma Danjuma, confirmed the successful rescue, highlighting the crucial role played by Ayakoro community residents.

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He explained that locals came out en masse and blocked all possible escape routes, leaving the kidnappers no option but to abandon their victim and flee into the creeks.

Following his rescue, Loveday was reunited with NDDC Managing Director, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, and leaders of the Ayakoro community.

Meanwhile, troops have intensified efforts to track down the fleeing kidnappers, with the General Officer Commanding 6 Division, Maj.-Gen. Emmanuel Emekah, ordering a crackdown on criminal elements along the waterways.

NAN