Army rescues abducted cleric in Enugu State after a swift intelligence-led operation, recovering an AK-47 rifle and ammunition

Troops of the 82 Division Nigerian Army and Joint Task Force South East, Operation UDO KA, have rescued an abducted cleric in Enugu State following a swift, intelligence-led operation.

Also read: Pinnick claims Super Eagles would qualify for 2026 World Cup

A military source disclosed on Friday that the victim, Reverend Johnson Anayo Onugwu, was rescued unharmed hours after being kidnapped from his residence in Ezimo community, Udenu Local Government Area.

The source said Reverend Johnson Anayo Onugwu was abducted in the early hours of Thursday.

Troops of the 82 Division Garrison, working with other security agencies, acted on actionable intelligence to track the kidnappers.

The troops reportedly trailed the suspects to the Itabolo general area before engaging them at Okpakeke community.

During the encounter, one of the kidnappers was neutralised, while the others fled the scene.

The source said no casualty was recorded on the side of the troops.

Items recovered during the operation included one AK-47 rifle, two magazines and ammunition.

The army reiterated its resolve to sustain offensive operations against criminal elements across the South East.

Also read: Pinnick claims Super Eagles would qualify for 2026 World Cup

The military also assured residents of continued collaboration with sister security agencies to safeguard lives and property.