Joint security operation frees 12 abducted residents in Enugu

By Zainab Uzomah|Abuja

Troops of the 82 Division Garrison under Operation Eastern Sanity have rescued 12 people who were abducted in Ette community in Igbo-Eze North Local Government Area of Enugu State.

According to a statement signed by the Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, 82 Division, Lieutenant Colonel Jonah Unuakhalu, the rescue operation was carried out on Friday following a distress call reporting that several residents had been kidnapped by suspected gunmen.

The statement said troops, working with police officers, forest guards and members of a neighbourhood watch group, moved to thesuspected hideout and launched search and combat patrols in the area. The suspected kidnappers fled on sighting the security forces, leaving the victims behind.

It added that the troops rescued all 12 victims unharmed and arrested two suspects linked to the abduction, who are now being interrogated to help track down other members of the gang. Security forces have also intensified patrols and surveillance across the area.