PHOTOS: Troops Rescue Five Kidnapped Travellers in Southeast Operation

Troops of the Joint Task Force Southeast (JTF SE) operating under Operation UDO KA have rescued five travellers abducted along the 9th Mile axis within the 82 Division Area of Responsibility.

The rescue followed a distress call received at about 6:55 p.m. on Friday, February 20, 2026, reporting an attack on commuters travelling towards Anambra State. The attackers were suspected members of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN).

According to the Nigerian Army, troops responded swiftly, engaged the gunmen and overpowered them. The assailants fled the scene, abandoning the captives.

All five victims were rescued without injuries, and their vehicle was recovered.

Security forces have since stepped up patrols in the area to track down the fleeing suspects and prevent further incidents.

The Army said it remains committed to safeguarding lives and securing major routes across the Southeast. It also called on residents to continue sharing timely and credible information with security agencies.