Troops of the Nigerian Army have rescued 12 kidnapped victims and arrested two suspects during a security operation in Ette community, located in Igbo-Eze North Local Government Area of Enugu State.
The rescue operation was carried out by soldiers under Operation Eastern Sanity, according to a statement released on Saturday by the Army.
The military disclosed that the troops of the 82 Division responded to a distress call reporting that several residents had been abducted by suspected kidnappers in the community.
According to the statement, the operation took place on Friday, March 6, after security agencies received intelligence that the victims had been taken to a nearby hideout.
“Troops of the 82 Division Garrison under Operation Eastern Sanity achieved another operational success with the rescue of 12 kidnapped victims in Ette community of Igbo-Eze North Local Government Area,” the Army said.
The statement noted that soldiers quickly mobilised to the area alongside other security stakeholders, including police officers, forest guards, and members of the local neighbourhood watch.
“Responding promptly to the distress call, troops moved to the suspected location in collaboration with police operatives, forest guards, and members of the neighbourhood watch where the victims were believed to have been taken,” the statement added.
The Army explained that once the troops arrived at the area, they launched intensive search operations and combat patrols to locate the kidnappers and secure the victims.
According to the military, the swift response and superior firepower of the troops forced the kidnappers to abandon their captives and flee the scene.
“Overwhelmed by the rapid response and combat readiness of the troops, the kidnappers fled the location and abandoned their captives,” the statement said.
The security operatives subsequently secured the area and successfully rescued all 12 victims without injuries.
“During the exploitation of the area, all 12 kidnapped victims were rescued unharmed,” the Army stated.
The military further disclosed that two suspects believed to be linked to the kidnapping were arrested during the operation.
According to the statement, the suspects are currently undergoing interrogation as security agencies intensify efforts to track down other members of the criminal gang.
Meanwhile, troops under Operation Eastern Sanity have increased patrols and surveillance in the area to strengthen security and reassure residents.
“The successful rescue highlights the troops’ sustained operational pressure and commitment to protecting lives and property while restoring confidence among residents,” the Army said.
