Troops of the Nigerian Army under Operation Eastern Sanity have rescued 12 kidnapped victims in Ette Community, Igbo-Eze North Local Government Area of Enugu State, following a swift response to a distress call.
The rescue operation, carried out on Friday, involved troops of the 82 Division Garrison working in collaboration with police operatives, Forest Guards and members of the local Neighbourhood Watch.
According to the Army, the operation was launched after security agencies received information that several residents had been abducted by suspected kidnappers in the community.
“Responding swiftly and with precision, the troops immediately mobilised in conjunction with police operatives, Forest Guards and members of the Neighbourhood Watch to the suspected area where the victims were believed to have been taken,” the Army said.
The troops subsequently launched aggressive search and fighting patrols across the area to track down the abductors and secure the victims’ release.
The Army said the kidnappers, overwhelmed by the rapid response and combat readiness of the troops, abandoned the victims and fled the scene.
“Overwhelmed by the rapid response and superior combat readiness of the troops, the kidnappers abandoned their captives and fled the scene,” the statement added.
Troops immediately secured the area and pursued the fleeing suspects. During a follow-up search of the location, all 12 victims were rescued unharmed.
Security operatives also arrested two suspects believed to be linked to the kidnapping. They are currently being interrogated as authorities intensify efforts to track down other members of the gang.
Meanwhile, troops of Operation Eastern Sanity have stepped up aggressive patrols and surveillance across the area to prevent further criminal activities.
The Army noted that the successful rescue reflects the troops’ sustained operational pressure on criminal elements and their commitment to protecting lives and property while restoring public confidence in communities across the region.
