Newsie Events Media :
Troops of the Joint Task Force Southeast under Operation UDO KA have rescued five people abducted by suspected armed criminals along the 9th Mile area of Enugu State.
The rescue followed a swift response to a distress call received at about 6:55 p.m. on February 20, 2026. The alert indicated that gunmen had attacked commuters travelling towards Anambra State.
According to the Nigerian Army, soldiers moved quickly to the location after receiving the report. On arrival, they encountered the attackers and engaged them in a gun battle. The exchange forced the assailants to flee, abandoning their captives and retreating into nearby areas.
Five kidnapped victims were rescued during the operation. The vehicle they were travelling in was also recovered.
In a statement issued on Saturday, the Army described the incident as another operational breakthrough for troops deployed in the Southeast.
“Troops of the Joint Task Force Southeast (JTF SE) Operation UDO KA have recorded another significant operational success following a rapid and coordinated response to a distress call received about the kidnap incident along the 9th Mile axis in 82 Division Area of Responsibility,” the statement said.
It added that the distress call, received at about 6:55pm on Friday 20 February 2026, pointed to a suspected armed gunmen attack on commuters heading towards Anambra State.
“The troops immediately mobilised to the scene and decisively engaged the armed elements with superior firepower and tactical manoeuvre.
“The swift and well-coordinated response compelled the criminals to abandon their captives and fled.
“Consequently, five kidnapped victims were rescued unharmed and their vehicle recovered intact.”
Following the rescue, soldiers increased patrols in the area to prevent the suspects from regrouping and to maintain security along the route.
“In the aftermath of the operation, troops intensified aggressive patrols and sustained area domination efforts to forestall any regrouping, track fleeing suspects and deny criminal elements freedom of action.”
The Army said the operation has helped boost public confidence and reassure road users in the region.
“This proactive posture has reinforced public confidence, reassured commuters and further degraded the operational capabilities of hostile actors across the region.
“The Nigerian Army remains resolute and unwavering in its commitment to safeguarding lives, securing critical lines of communication and dismantling all terrorist and criminal networks in the Southeast.”
The military also called on members of the public to continue supporting security agencies with useful information.
“Members of the public are encouraged to continue providing timely and credible information to security agencies, as collective vigilance and cooperation remain vital to achieving enduring peace, stability and security across the region.”
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