In a decisive military operation, Nigerian security forces have successfully rescued fourteen individuals who were being held captive by kidnappers. The raid took place in the dense Orokam Forest, a corridor that links communities in Enugu and Benue States.
Swift Action Based on Community Tip-Off
The successful mission was launched on 8 December 2025 after troops received credible and actionable intelligence from vigilant sources within the local community. Acting on this tip, soldiers from Sector 1 of the Joint Task Force South East, Operation UDO KA (OPUK), coordinated with local vigilante groups to plan a rapid assault.
They targeted a suspected kidnappers' hideout, which was carefully concealed deep within the forest expanse between Udenu Local Council of Enugu State and Ogbadigbo Local Council of Benue State.
Fierce Engagement and Rescue
Upon reaching the location, the joint force was met with immediate gunfire from the criminals, sparking a fierce firefight. However, the superior firepower and tactical manoeuvring of the troops overwhelmed the kidnappers.
The assailants were forced to break contact and flee into the forest, abandoning their captives in the process. This bold action by the troops ensured that all fourteen victims were recovered safely without harm during the exchange.
Investigations revealed that the victims had been abducted over the preceding weekend while they were returning from a burial ceremony. They were being held in separate, dispersed clusters across the forest area to avoid detection.
Further intelligence confirmed that the abductions occurred in two separate communities: Ezimo Agu in Udenu LGA of Enugu State and Orokam in Ogbadigbo LGA of Benue State.
Handover and Continued Security Pledge
Following their rescue, all fourteen persons were formally handed over to the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Udenu Division for necessary documentation, profiling, and eventual reunification with their anxious families.
The Nigerian Army, in a statement reaffirming its commitment, pledged to maintain aggressive dominance in the operational theatre. The force vowed to continue its unwavering resolve to neutralise all security threats and uphold peace and security across Nigeria's South-East region.
This operation underscores the critical importance of collaboration between the military, police, and local communities in combating the scourge of kidnapping and insecurity in the country.
