South East Military Operations Rescue 15 Kidnap Victims, Seize Weapons in Coordinated Raids

Joint military forces have successfully rescued 15 individuals kidnapped in the South East during coordinated operations, the Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has announced. The rescues took place between December 3 and December 12, 2025, as part of Joint Task Force South East’s Operation Udoka.

Major General Michael Onoja, Director of Defence Media Operations, confirmed that the victims were freed in Enugu, Benue, Cross River, and Ebonyi states, specifically in Udenu, Ogbadigbo, Ikang, and Ishielu local government areas. Troops also raided a suspected local weapons fabrication workshop in Ihiala, Anambra State, reportedly linked to the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN). Weapons, ammunition, and fabrication tools were recovered during the operation.

Additionally, 11 illegal immigrants were apprehended and handed over to the Nigerian Immigration Service for further action. Major General Onoja emphasized that the operations are part of ongoing efforts to dismantle kidnapping networks and restrict criminal activity in the region, and assured that military patrols will continue to safeguard lives and property across the South East.