Troops Rescue Kidnapped Lieutenant Colonel, Civilian After 10-Day Search in Enugu

Troops of the Nigerian Army have rescued a kidnapped senior military officer, Lieutenant Colonel Ofor Amobi, and a civilian, Mr. Ikechukwu Onwuanra, following a 10-day joint search-and-rescue operation in Enugu State.

The rescue followed an intensive operation involving the Nigerian Army and other security agencies, which tracked the kidnappers across suspected hideouts before successfully securing the victims’ release. The operation marks another significant breakthrough in the fight against kidnapping and violent crime in Nigeria’s South-East.

Security sources said the operation was driven by actionable intelligence gathered after the victims were abducted.

Troops, working alongside other security personnel, conducted extensive searches through forested areas and locations believed to be used by criminal gangs. The sustained pressure mounted by the joint security team ultimately forced the kidnappers to lose their grip on the victims, leading to their successful rescue.

Lieutenant Colonel Amobi and Mr. Onwuanra were rescued alive after spending ten days in captivity.

Both victims are reported to be in safe condition and are undergoing medical evaluation and debriefing following the traumatic ordeal. Security officials have not disclosed whether any ransom was paid, maintaining that investigations are still ongoing.

Following the rescue, security operatives have intensified efforts to track down and arrest members of the kidnapping syndicate responsible for the abduction.

Authorities say search operations are continuing across parts of Enugu State and neighbouring areas, with troops maintaining pressure on criminal groups operating in forests and remote communities. The military reiterated its commitment to dismantling kidnapping networks and ensuring those responsible are brought to justice.

The rescue comes amid persistent concerns over kidnapping incidents in parts of Nigeria, particularly in the South-East, where security agencies have stepped up intelligence-led operations to combat armed criminal groups.

Analysts say the successful rescue highlights the importance of collaboration between the military, police and local security networks in responding swiftly to abduction cases and improving public safety.

Military authorities have reaffirmed their resolve to protect citizens and security personnel, urging members of the public to continue providing credible information that can assist ongoing operations against kidnappers and other criminal elements.

They stressed that sustained intelligence gathering, inter-agency cooperation and community support remain critical to defeating organised crime and restoring lasting security across affected regions.