Troops Rescue 12 Kidnap Victims, Arrest Suspects In Enugu

Troops of the 82 Division Garrison under Operation Eastern Sanity have rescued 12 Kidnap victims and arrested some suspects in Ette Community, Igbo-Eze North Local Government Area of Enugu State.

The rescue operation was conducted on Friday, 6 March 2026, following a distress call received about the abduction of several residents by suspected kidnappers. 

Among those rescued included a father, Patrick Eze, an Okada rider, and her 13 year old daughter who were abducted from their family house in Aguibeje, a border community with Ette in the local government.

The kidnappers who were armed with AK- 47 riffles at the time of the abduction of Patrick Eze and his daughter, had earlier killed two members of the Neighbourhood Watch in Aguibeje in a failed bid to kidnap the Parish Priest of St Jude's Catholic Church in the area.

Before the rescue of Patrick and his daughter, the kidnappers had demanded N25 million ransom.

However, in a swift response the troops who acted with precision, 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.

Upon arrival, the troops commenced aggressive search and fighting patrols across the general area in an effort to track down the kidnappers and secure the victims’ release.

Overwhelmed by the rapid response and superior combat readiness of the troops, the kidnappers abandoned their captives and fled the scene. The troops immediately pursued the fleeing criminals while securing the area.

During the exploitation of the location, all the 12 kidnapped victims were successfully rescued unharmed. In the process, two suspects linked to the kidnapping were arrested and are being interrogated to track down other members of the gang

Meanwhile, troops of Operation Eastern Sanity have intensified aggressive patrols and surveillance across the area to ensure public safety.

The successful rescue further demonstrates the troops’ sustained operational pressure and unwavering commitment to protecting lives and property while restoring lasting security and public confidence across communities in the region.