In a significant breakthrough, the joint security task force, Troops of Operation Udoka, has successfully rescued six kidnapped victims in Enugu State.
The operation, which was carried out in collaboration with the Nigerian Army, Police, local vigilante groups, and forest guards, resulted in the arrest of 32 suspected members of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN).
Among the rescued victims were two reverend sisters, identified as Ukwluaba Ogochukwu and Florian Amrdia, who were freed unharmed during the coordinated operation.
According to sources, the kidnappers, overwhelmed by the relentless pursuit of the security forces, abandoned their captives in the Nkwo Okwutu forest in Nsukka Local Government Area, near the Enugu-Kogi border, around 7:30 a.m. on Thursday.
The successful rescue operation is a testament to the effectiveness of the joint security task force in tackling security challenges in the region.
The arrest of suspected IPOB and ESN members is also a significant development in the efforts to disrupt the activities of these groups, which have been responsible for various security breaches in the area.
The rescue of the reverend sisters and other victims brings relief to their families and the community at large. The incident highlights the bravery and dedication of the security personnel involved in the operation, who worked tirelessly to ensure the safe release of the captives.
Also, in a coordinated effort to crack down on criminal activities linked to the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), security forces conducted a series of targeted raids in Enugu State.
The operation, which took place between 3:10 a.m. and 5:30 a.m., saw troops storm suspected hideouts in the communities of Mmaku, Ugbo Afam, Ugo Nenwe, and Ugbonabo. The raids resulted in the arrest of 32 suspects believed to be affiliated with the groups.
According to sources, the operation was informed by credible intelligence that linked several of the suspects to a recent attack on a police patrol team from the Mbanabo Division.
Notably, ten of the arrested individuals are believed to be high-profile operatives who played significant roles in previous attacks on key security installations, including the Awgu Divisional Police Headquarters and the Inyi Division.
These individuals are thought to have been instrumental in planning and executing these attacks, which posed significant threats to public safety and security.
The joint tactical operation was led by the Commander of the Distress Response Squad, who was deployed by the Commissioner of Police, Enugu State Command.
The team comprised personnel from various specialized units, including the Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) unit, the Counter Terrorism Unit (CTU), and the Police Mobile Force (PMF).
The inclusion of these units underscores the complexity and seriousness of the operation, as well as the commitment of the security agencies to tackle the menace posed by IPOB/ESN.
The arrested suspects are currently undergoing investigations to determine the extent of their involvement in the activities of IPOB/ESN.
Those found culpable will face prosecution, a move that is expected to further degrade the capabilities of these groups and enhance security in the region. The operation highlights the ongoing efforts of security agencies to address the security challenges in Enugu State and restore peace and stability to the affected communities.