Army Rescues Kidnapped Lieutenant Colonel, Civilian After 10-Day Operation in Enugu
The Nigerian Army has rescued a senior military officer, Lt. Col. Ofor Amobi, and a civilian, Ikechukwu Onwuanra, following a 10-day search-and-rescue operation after both men were abducted by gunmen in Enugu State. The successful mission was carried out through a joint operation involving troops, the police and local security groups.
The two victims were kidnapped on July 22 while travelling along the Enugu–Port Harcourt Expressway. Their abduction triggered an intensive manhunt, with security agencies combing forests and other suspected hideouts in the area in a bid to locate them.
Military authorities said the operation relied heavily on intelligence gathering and close collaboration between security agencies and local vigilante groups. The coordinated efforts eventually led troops to the location where the victims were being held.
During the rescue mission, the kidnappers reportedly came under pressure from advancing troops and abandoned the victims before fleeing deeper into the forest. Both the army officer and the civilian were rescued alive without paying any ransom.
Following their rescue, the victims received immediate medical attention and were found to be in stable condition. Security officials said necessary steps were also taken to reunite them with their families after undergoing routine medical examinations.
The Army said operations are continuing to track down and arrest the kidnappers who escaped during the raid. Troops have intensified patrols and surveillance across the area to prevent the suspects from regrouping or carrying out further attacks.
Military authorities praised the cooperation between the armed forces, the police, local vigilantes and members of the community, describing the partnership as a key factor in the successful rescue operation. They also urged residents to continue providing credible intelligence to support security efforts.
The latest operation is part of ongoing efforts by security agencies to combat kidnapping and other violent crimes in the South-East, as authorities intensify operations against criminal groups operating in the region.