Troops of the Nigerian Army's 82 Division, in a joint operation with other security agencies, have successfully rescued a kidnapped Anglican priest and killed one of his abductors in Enugu State. The cleric, Rev. Johnson Anayo Onugwu, was abducted from his residence in the early hours of January 29.
According to a military operational update, the victim was taken from his home in Ezimo community, Udenu Local Government Area, at about 1:00 a.m. by armed men. Following actionable intelligence, troops from the 82 Division Garrison were swiftly deployed to the Udenu axis to trail the kidnappers.
The security forces tracked the criminals to the Itabolo general area and eventually engaged them in a fierce gun battle at Okpakeke community. The confrontation led to the successful rescue of Rev. Onugwu, who was unharmed.
During the operation, the troops expended 30 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, with no casualties recorded on the side of the security forces. One of the kidnappers was neutralized at the scene.
Items recovered from the operation included one AK-47 rifle, two magazines, and 20 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition. The rescued cleric has since been reunited with his relieved family.
The military, in its statement, reiterated its commitment to sustaining operations against kidnapping and other violent crimes across the South-East region. Security agencies confirmed that efforts are ongoing to track down the remaining members of the criminal gang and bring them to justice.
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