Troops Rescue 12 Kidnapped Victims, Arrest Two Suspects in Enugu Operation

Troops operating under the auspices of Operation Eastern Sanity have successfully rescued 12 kidnapped victims and apprehended two suspects in the Igbo-Eze North Local Government Area of Enugu State.

The rescue operation, conducted by personnel of the 82 Division Nigerian Army, took place on Friday, March 6, 2026, in the Ette Community. According to a statement released by the army on Saturday, the operation was launched in response to a distress call regarding the abduction of several community members.

The statement detailed that upon receiving the information, troops swiftly mobilised and collaborated with police operatives, local Forest Guards, and members of the Neighbourhood Watch. The joint team advanced to the location where the victims were reportedly being held.

Upon arrival, the security forces launched an aggressive search and fighting patrol. The statement noted that the kidnappers, seemingly overwhelmed by the troops’ rapid response and superior firepower, abandoned their captives and fled the scene.

A pursuit of the fleeing suspects ensued, during which the troops secured the area and successfully rescued all 12 victims unharmed.

“The troops immediately mobilised in conjunction with police operatives, Forest Guards and members of the Neighbourhood Watch, advancing to the suspected area where the victims were believed to have been taken,” the statement read in part. “During the exploitation of the location, all the 12 kidnapped victims were successfully rescued unharmed.”

Following the rescue, two individuals suspected to be linked to the kidnapping gang were arrested. The suspects are currently in custody and undergoing interrogation to aid in tracking down other members of the criminal network.

In the wake of the incident, the army has stated that troops from Operation Eastern Sanity have intensified patrols and surveillance in the area. The military command reiterated its commitment to protecting lives and property, and to restoring public confidence across communities in the region.