Troops of the Nigerian Army from the 82 Division Garrison, operating under Operation Eastern Sanity, have rescued 12 people who were kidnapped in the Ette community, located in Igbo-Eze North Local Government Area of Enugu State.
According to a statement released by the Nigerian Army, the rescue operation was carried out on Friday, March 6, 2026, after security operatives received a distress call informing them that several residents of the community had been abducted by suspected kidnappers.
The report explained that the troops immediately responded to the emergency alert. They quickly mobilized and worked together with other security agencies, including police operatives, forest guards, and members of the neighbourhood watch in the area.
The joint security team then moved toward the location where the kidnapped victims were believed to have been taken by the criminals.
On arrival at the suspected hideout, the troops began intensive search operations and conducted fighting patrols across the surrounding areas as part of efforts to locate the kidnappers and ensure the safe rescue of the victims.
However, when the kidnappers noticed the quick response and strong presence of the troops, they abandoned the victims and fled from the scene to avoid being captured.
The Army statement said the troops immediately chased the fleeing suspects while also securing the environment to ensure that no further harm came to the rescued victims.
“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,” the statement explained.
During the operation carried out at the location, the 12 kidnapped victims were successfully rescued and were found to be unharmed.
Security operatives also arrested two suspects who are believed to be connected to the kidnapping incident. The suspects are currently being interrogated by security agencies to help provide useful information that could lead to the arrest of other members of the criminal gang.
“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,” the statement added.
The Nigerian Army assured residents that security operations in the area will continue in order to protect lives and property and to ensure that criminal activities are reduced in communities across Enugu State.
