In a swift and decisive intelligence-led operation, troops of the 82 Division Nigerian Army and the Joint Task Force South East, Operation UDO KA, have successfully rescued Reverend Johnson Anayo Onugwu from his captors in Enugu State.
The clergyman was violently abducted from his residence in the Ezimo community, located within the Udenu Local Government Area, in the early hours of Thursday, January 29, 2026. Armed gunmen reportedly stormed his home around 1:00 am, whisking him away to an unknown destination and sparking immediate concern within the local community.
Upon receiving actionable intelligence, troops from the 82 Division Garrison stationed at Udenu tracked the kidnappers to the Itabolo general area. The pursuit eventually led security forces to the Okpakeke community, where they intercepted the criminal gang.
“The encounter resulted in a fierce gun battle,” a military spokesperson confirmed while briefing reporters on the rescue. “During the exchange, one of the criminals was neutralized on the spot, which allowed our troops to secure the victim safely.”
In the aftermath of the skirmish, the military recovered a significant cache of weaponry from the scene. The items seized included one AK-47 rifle, two magazines, and 20 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition.
The successful operation highlights the ongoing efforts of the Joint Task Force to stabilize the South East region. Military officials emphasized that this rescue was the result of seamless cooperation between the Nigerian Army and other security agencies.
“The Nigerian Army remains resolute in its commitment to safeguarding lives and property,” the division statement continued. “We will continue to deny criminal elements any freedom of action within our Area of Responsibility to ensure the safety of all citizens.”
Reverend Onugwu has since been reunited with his community, while security forces maintain a heightened presence in the area to track down the remaining suspects who fled during the encounter.
