SAA event in Nigeria on Tue 28th April 2026

OPERATION EASTERN SANITY: TROOPS RESCUE KIDNAP VICTIMS ARREST CRIMINALS IN THE SOUTH EAST 
  
Troops of Operation UDO KA  in collaboration with other security agencies have continued to sustain operational momentum in the South East under the ongoing operation EASTERN SANITY. Troops recorded significant successes with the rescue of kidnap victims in Enugu State and the arrest of a criminal network member in Ebonyi State on 28 April 2026. 

In Ezeagu Local Government Area of Enugu State, troops of the 82 Division Garrison deployed at Akama acted swiftly on credible intelligence regarding a kidnap attempt along the Akama–Iwollo Road in Enugu state. The troops pursued and engaged the criminals, successfully rescuing four abducted individuals: Chisom Kingsley and Chuoke Chinedu, both from Akama. Others are, Jonathan Paul Chukwu from Akwa Ibom, and Patience John from Taraba State. A motorcycle and a vehicle were recovered during the operation. The rescued victims,  the recovered motorcycle and vehicle, were handed over to the Nigerian Police for further investigation.

In a related operation, acting on intelligence derived from the earlier arrest of a notorious insurgent commander, Mr Chinedu Igautu, known as “Calamity,” and four of his associates,
 troops of Sector 2, Operation UDO KA, conducted a follow-up operation in Izzi Local Government Area of Ebonyi State. 

 The operation led to the arrest of another key member of the IPOB/ESN criminal network, Mr. Chisom Agashi Ogadego, also known as “Baron,”. Preliminary investigation revealed that the suspect had been involved in criminal activities, including kidnapping operations within the state. The suspect provided useful information that enabled further operational gains, including the recovery of AK-47 rifle, magazines, and ammunition from a location within Izzi Local Government Area of Ebonyi state. 

These coordinated actions underscore the effectiveness of ongoing intelligence-led operations aimed at dismantling criminal networks and safeguarding communities across the South-East. The Nigerian Army reassures the public of its unwavering commitment to protecting lives and property. Citizens are encouraged to continue supporting the Nigerian Army and other security agencies with timely and credible information to enhance operational successes against criminal elements.

OLABISI OLALEKAN AYENI
Lieutenant Colonel
Acting Deputy Director Army Public Relations
82 Division Nigerian Army
29 April 2026