Photos: Troops Rescue Kidnap Victims, Arrest Suspect in South-East Operations

Troops under Operation UDO KA have recorded new successes in ongoing security operations across Nigeria’s South-East, rescuing kidnap victims in Enugu State and arresting a suspected criminal network member in Ebonyi State.

According to a statement from the 82 Division of the Nigerian Army, the operations were carried out on 28 April 2026 as part of the broader campaign tagged “Operation Eastern Sanity.”

In Ezeagu Local Government Area, troops deployed from the 82 Division Garrison at Akama responded to intelligence about a kidnap attempt along the Akama–Iwollo Road. The troops engaged the suspected kidnappers and rescued four victims: Chisom Kingsley and Chuoke Chinedu, both from Akama; Jonathan Paul Chukwu from Akwa Ibom State; and Patience John from Taraba State.

Security forces also recovered a motorcycle and a vehicle during the operation. The victims and recovered items were handed over to the police for further investigation.

In a separate operation in Izzi Local Government Area, troops acting on intelligence linked to an earlier arrest apprehended another suspect identified as Chisom Agashi Ogadego, also known as “Baron.” He is alleged to be part of a criminal network associated with kidnapping activities in the state.

Military sources said information provided by the suspect led to the recovery of an AK-47 rifle, magazines, and ammunition within the area.

The Nigerian Army said the operations reflect ongoing efforts to disrupt criminal networks and improve security across the South-East. Authorities also called on residents to continue providing credible information to support security agencies.