Security operatives rescue 12 kidnap victims in Enugu Forest

2026-03-08 - 00:38

By Alumona Ukwueze NSUKKA — Security operatives have rescued 12 kidnapped victims from Efeche Forest in Ette, Igbo-Eze North Local Government Area of Enugu State, during a coordinated operation carried out on Friday, March 6, 2026. The rescued victims were identified as Patrick Eze, Chidinma Eze, Paul Peter, a farmer from Ogugu in Kogi State; Abutu Comfort from Ogugu, Kogi State; Emmanuel Samson from Ogene Ofada, Kogi State; Matthew Onoja from Ette; Akor Emmanuel, a farmer; Onoja Samuel from Ogene, Kogi State; Omeke Ozoemena from Iyionu, Aguibeje; Peter Friday, 35, from Ogene, Kogi State; Emmanuel Akor, 33, from Ette in Enugu State; and Isiaka Ibrahim, 28, from Ogene, Kogi State. Following their rescue, the victims were taken to a hospital for medical attention and evaluation. Sources said they are currently receiving treatment and are in stable condition. Security operatives involved in the operation have continued efforts to track down the suspected kidnappers who reportedly fled the scene during the rescue mission. The operation is being viewed as a significant step in efforts to tackle kidnapping and other criminal activities in Igbo-Eze North Local Government Area. Reacting to the development, the Chairman of Igbo-Eze North LGA, Hon. Michael Uche Ogalla, warned criminal elements to stay away from the area, stressing that the council would not tolerate criminal activities. Ogalla assured residents that the local government, in collaboration with security agencies, would continue to work to maintain peace and safety in the area. He also urged residents to remain vigilant and support security operatives by providing useful information that could help prevent crime.