Firepower!: Security Forces Neutralise Kidnap Suspect, Rescue Victim in Enugu Forest Operation
Security operatives in Enugu State have neutralised a suspected kidnapper and rescued an abducted victim following a joint operation by the police, the Nigerian Army, Forest Guards, Neighbourhood Watch Group and local vigilantes in Udenu Local Government Area of the state.
The operation, which took place in the early hours of Thursday, January 29, 2026, was triggered by a distress report that a male victim had been abducted by armed men in Ezimo-Uno community, Udenu LGA.
Following the report, the Commissioner of Police in Enugu State, CP Mamman Bitrus Giwa, ordered the immediate deployment of security personnel to the area to rescue the victim and apprehend the perpetrators. The coordinated operation led operatives to the Agu-Shere and Okpakereke forest areas, where they encountered the suspected kidnappers.
According to the police, the suspects opened fire on the operatives, who responded decisively. In the ensuing exchange, one of the kidnappers was neutralised, while others fled deeper into the forest bordering Benue State, allegedly with varying degrees of gunshot injuries.
The kidnapped victim was rescued unharmed during the operation.
Items recovered from the scene include one AK-47 rifle loaded with 20 rounds of live ammunition, an extra magazine, two daggers, military camouflage uniforms, mobile phones, assorted food items, cooking utensils and a freshly slaughtered chicken.
The police said a manhunt has been launched to track down the fleeing suspects and dismantle the criminal gang.
CP Giwa reassured residents of Enugu State of the unwavering commitment of the security agencies to combating kidnapping and other violent crimes across the state. He urged members of the public, particularly health and medical service providers, to promptly report anyone sighted with gunshot injuries to the police or the nearest security formation.
The commissioner also appealed to residents to continue supporting security agencies with timely and credible information to enhance public safety and security.
The development was confirmed in a statement signed by the Police Public Relations Officer of the Enugu State Command, SP Daniel Ndukwe, at the state headquarters in
EDITOR
Sam Udekwe is a journalist working in the News and Current Affairs department, Enugu State Broadcasting Service (ESBS) Enugu. He is well trained in all genres of journalistic venture.
Mr Sam read Mass Communication, graduating all with Distinction in National Diploma, Higher National Diploma and Postgraduate Diploma at IMT, Enugu and Madonna University, Okija, Anambra state, as well as M.Sc Mass Communication at National Open University of Nigeria.
He is the immediate past NUJ Chairman, Enugu state.
samowailo@gmail.com
