Troops rescue 5 travelers from suspected IPOB/ESN terrorists

By Ayox Ojo/Abuja

Troops of Nigerian Army have rescued five persons abducted by suspected IPOB/ESN terrorists on their way to Anambra State.

Nigerian Army said this in a statement published on its social media handles on Saturday.

According to the statement, the rescue of the kidnapped victims followed a distress call received by troops of the Joint Task Force Southeast (JTF SE) Operation UDO KA at about 6:55pm on Friday.

The distress call has indicated that suspected IPOB/ESN launched attack on commuters travelling towards Anambra State.

“The troops immediately mobilised to the scene and decisively engaged the armed elements with superior firepower and tactical manoeuvre.

“The swift and well-coordinated response compelled the criminals to abandon their captives and fled.

“Consequently, five kidnapped victims were rescued unharmed and their vehicle recovered intact,” the statement indicated.

Nigerian Army added that in the aftermath of the operation, troops have intensified aggressive patrols and sustained area domination efforts.

This, it said, was to forestall any regrouping, track fleeing suspects and deny criminal elements freedom of action.

“This proactive posture has reinforced public confidence, reassured commuters and further degraded the operational capabilities of hostile actors across the region.

“The Nigerian Army remains resolute and unwavering in its commitment to safeguarding lives, securing critical lines of communication and dismantling all terrorist and criminal networks in the Southeast.

“Members of the public are encouraged to continue providing timely and credible information to security agencies, as collective vigilance and cooperation remain vital to achieving enduring peace, stability and security across the region,” the Army concluded in the statement.