Troops of the Nigerian Army have rescued 12 kidnapped victims and arrested two suspected kidnappers during a security operation in Ette Community, Igbo‑Eze North Local Government Area of Enugu State.
The operation was carried out by troops of the 82 Division Nigerian Army under the ongoing security mission, Operation Eastern Sanity.
In a statement issued on Saturday through the Army’s official account, the service said the rescue followed a distress call reporting the abduction of several residents in the community.
According to the statement, the operation took place on Friday, March 6, 2026, after security operatives received intelligence that suspected kidnappers had taken multiple victims to a nearby hideout.
“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 Army said.
The military explained that the troops quickly mobilised for the rescue mission alongside other security and community stakeholders.
“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.
Upon arrival at the suspected location, the troops reportedly launched aggressive search and fighting patrols aimed at locating the kidnappers and freeing the captives.
“Overwhelmed by the rapid response and superior combat readiness of the troops, the kidnappers abandoned their captives and fled the scene,” the statement said.
The Army noted that troops pursued the fleeing suspects while securing the area and ensuring the safety of the victims.
“During the exploitation of the location, all the 12 kidnapped victims were successfully rescued unharmed,” the statement said.
It added that two suspects believed to be connected to the kidnapping were arrested during the operation and are currently being interrogated to assist security agencies in tracking down other members of the criminal gang.
Meanwhile, the Army said troops of Operation Eastern Sanity have intensified patrols and surveillance across the area to sustain security operations and reassure residents.
“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 statement added.
