Troops of the Nigerian Army have rescued 12 kidnapped victims and arrested two suspects during a coordinated security operation in Ette Community, Igbo-Eze North Local Government Area of Enugu State.

The operation was carried out by soldiers of the 82 Division under Operation Eastern Sanity after a distress call alerted security agencies to the abduction of several residents. The victims were reportedly seized and moved into a remote area on the outskirts of the community.

According to a statement issued by the Army, troops from the 82 Division Garrison immediately mobilised alongside operatives of the Nigeria Police Force, Enugu State Forest Guards and members of the local Neighbourhood Watch. The combined team advanced to the suspected hideout, using intelligence from the initial alert to narrow down the location.

On arrival, the troops launched aggressive search and fighting patrols across the surrounding bush paths and enclaves believed to be used by the kidnappers. The Army said the speed and intensity of the response forced the abductors to abandon their captives and flee into the forest.

All 12 victims were subsequently found and rescued unharmed. Security personnel continued to comb the area, pursuing the fleeing suspects and securing the immediate environment to prevent a regrouping of the gang.

During the follow-up phase of the operation, two individuals suspected to be linked to the kidnapping ring were arrested. The Army disclosed that the suspects are currently undergoing interrogation and are expected to provide information that could lead to the arrest of other members of the criminal network.

The military added that patrols and surveillance under Operation Eastern Sanity have been intensified in and around Ette and neighbouring communities. The aim, it said, is to deter further attacks, reassure residents and restore confidence in the security architecture of the area.

The Army described the rescue as another demonstration of its sustained operational pressure on criminal elements and its commitment to protecting lives and property in the South-East. It urged residents to continue to provide timely information to security agencies to enable rapid response to threats.