Troops of the Nigerian Army have successfully rescued 12 kidnapped victims and arrested two suspected kidnappers during a security operation in Ette Community, located in Igbo-Eze North Local Government Area of Enugu State.
The operation was carried out by troops of the 82 Division Nigerian Army under Operation Eastern Sanity, following a distress call reporting the abduction of several residents in the community.
According to a statement released on Saturday by the Army through its official communication channels, the rescue mission was launched on Friday, March 6, 2026, after security operatives received credible information that suspected kidnappers had taken multiple victims to a nearby location within the community.
The Army explained that upon receiving the distress alert, troops immediately mobilised and moved to the suspected area in collaboration with police operatives, Forest Guards, and members of the local Neighbourhood Watch.
“Troops of the 82 Division Garrison under Operation Eastern Sanity have recorded another operational success with the rescue of 12 kidnapped victims in Ette Community, Igbo-Eze North Local Government Area of Enugu State,” the statement said.
It added that the troops responded swiftly and professionally, advancing into the suspected hideout of the kidnappers while conducting aggressive search and fighting patrols across the area in order to locate the victims and neutralise the criminals.
According to the Army, the suspected kidnappers abandoned the victims and fled upon sighting the advancing troops, apparently overwhelmed by the rapid response and superior combat readiness of the security forces.
“Responding swiftly and with precision, 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 added.
During the operation, the troops pursued the fleeing suspects while simultaneously securing the environment to ensure the safety of the victims.
The Army confirmed that all 12 abducted victims were rescued unharmed during the operation.
“Overwhelmed by the rapid response and superior combat readiness of the troops, the kidnappers abandoned their captives and fled the scene. During the exploitation of the location, all the 12 kidnapped victims were successfully rescued unharmed,” the statement said.
The security operatives also arrested two suspects believed to be linked to the kidnapping operation. The suspects are currently undergoing interrogation as part of ongoing efforts by security agencies to track down other members of the criminal gang.
Meanwhile, the Army disclosed that troops of Operation Eastern Sanity have intensified patrols and surveillance activities across the area to prevent further criminal activities and reassure residents of their safety.
The military added that the successful rescue operation reflects the sustained operational pressure being applied by troops to combat insecurity and restore peace in communities across the region.
“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,” the Army stated.
