Troops of the Joint Task Force South-East (JTF SE) under Operation UDO KA have successfully foiled a brazen kidnap attempt along the 9th Mile axis of Enugu State, rescuing five commuters and recovering their vehicle without casualties.
The incident occurred on the evening of February 20, 2026, when armed men suspected to be linked to the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), allegedly intercepted travellers heading toward Anambra State.
According to military sources, the attackers attempted to abduct the occupants of a private vehicle while they were in transit along the busy corridor.
At approximately 6:55 p.m., troops within the 82 Division’s Area of Responsibility received a distress call alerting them to the unfolding kidnap attempt.
Demonstrating operational alertness and rapid response capability, the soldiers immediately mobilised to the location.
Their swift movement to the scene helped to foil what could have escalated into a prolonged hostage situation.
Upon arrival, the troops engaged the armed elements in a tactical confrontation.
Security sources described the encounter as brief but decisive, with soldiers deploying coordinated manoeuvres that overwhelmed the assailants.
The superior firepower and organised response of the troops forced the attackers to abandon their captives and retreat into nearby bushes.
As a result of the intervention, all five victims were rescued unhurt. Their vehicle was also recovered intact, preventing further loss or destruction of property.
The successful operation dealt a setback to criminal networks operating in parts of the South-East and once again demonstrated efforts by security agencies to foil violent activities along strategic highways.
Following the rescue, troops intensified patrols across the 9th Mile area and adjoining communities.
Security officials explained that sustained area domination exercises were initiated to prevent the fleeing suspects from regrouping.
Additional checkpoints and coordinated surveillance have been mounted to track down those responsible and disrupt any logistical support available to them.
The 9th Mile axis remains a critical junction linking Enugu State to neighbouring Anambra and other South-East states.
It serves as a major route for commercial transport, private vehicles, and inter-state travellers.
The attempted kidnap underscores ongoing security challenges in the region, where non-state actors have intermittently targeted commuters and security formations.
Military authorities reaffirmed their commitment to protecting lives and property across Enugu State and the wider South-East.
They noted that operations under JTF SE Operation UDO KA are structured to proactively identify and neutralise threats before they escalate.
Friday’s success, they said, highlights how rapid intelligence sharing and decisive action can foil criminal plots.
Residents and commuters expressed relief following the development, describing the rescue as timely and reassuring.
Many travellers who rely on the 9th Mile route daily welcomed the increased military presence, noting that visible patrols help restore confidence and deter would-be attackers.
A senior officer involved in the operation emphasised that public cooperation remains essential in sustaining security gains.
He urged citizens to promptly report suspicious movements or unusual gatherings, stressing that credible information often plays a vital role in enabling troops to foil criminal enterprises.
While no casualties were recorded during the exchange, the military confirmed that efforts are ongoing to apprehend the fleeing suspects.
Intelligence teams are reportedly working alongside ground forces to comb surrounding forests and identify hideouts that may be linked to the attackers.
Security analysts observe that targeted highway attacks are often aimed at instilling fear and disrupting economic activity.
However, consistent counter-operations and strategic patrols have significantly reduced the operational space available to such groups in recent months.
The latest development adds to a series of interventions where security forces successfully foiled attempted kidnappings and ambushes.
Authorities reiterated that safeguarding critical routes remains a top priority. They assured residents that the Nigerian Army, in collaboration with other security agencies, will continue to dismantle networks responsible for violent crimes.
Emphasis is also being placed on intelligence-driven missions, community engagement, and rapid deployment strategies.
As normalcy gradually returns to the area, commuters have resumed travel with heightened awareness but renewed confidence.
The visible patrols and checkpoints serve as reminders of the ongoing commitment to stability.
The military concluded by calling for unity among stakeholders, noting that lasting peace requires collective vigilance.
By strengthening cooperation between civilians and security operatives, authorities believe further attempts to destabilise communities will be swiftly detected and foiled.
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