Troops of the Joint Task Force South-East (JTF SE), Operation UDO KA, on Friday night foiled a suspected kidnap attempt along the 9th Mile axis of Enugu State, rescuing five victims and recovering their vehicle intact.
Security sources disclosed that the victims were travelling to Anambra State when suspected members of IPOB/ESN launched an attack on commuters within the 82 Division Area of Responsibility.
According to a senior military source, troops received a distress call at about 6:55 p.m. on February 20, 2026, reporting a suspected IPOB/ESN attack on commuters transiting through the 9th Mile corridor.
“The troops, in demonstration of exceptional vigilance and combat readiness, immediately mobilised to the scene to confront the criminals,” the source said.
He explained that upon arrival, the troops engaged the armed elements in a fierce exchange, overpowering them with superior firepower and tactical manoeuvre.
“The swift and aggressive response forced the criminals to abandon their captives and flee into surrounding bushes.
“As a result, five kidnap victims were successfully rescued unhurt, while their vehicle was recovered intact, dealing a significant blow to the criminal network operating in the area,” he added.
The source further revealed that troops have since intensified aggressive patrols and area domination operations to prevent the suspects from regrouping, track down fleeing members and deny criminal elements freedom of action.
“This sustained presence has reinforced public confidence, reassured commuters, and further degraded the operational capabilities of hostile actors across the sector,” he stated.
The senior military officer reassured residents of the Nigerian Army’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding lives, securing critical routes and dismantling criminal and terrorist networks across the South-East.
He also urged members of the public to continue providing timely and credible information to security agencies, stressing that collective vigilance and cooperation remain vital to achieving lasting peace, stability and security in the region.
