By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini
Security forces have rescued a kidnapped reverend after a gunfight in Enugu State, leaving one of his abductors dead.
Reverend Johnson Anayo Onugwu was taken from his home in Ezimo community, Udenu Local Government Area, around 1:00 am on Thursday, January 29, 2026.
Troops from the 82 Division Garrison, part of the Joint Task Force South East (Operation UDO KA), acted on intelligence and tracked the kidnappers to the Okpakeke community following a trail through the Itabolo area.
A fierce firefight ensued, resulting in the neutralization of one criminal and the safe recovery of Reverend Onugwu.
The operation also led to the recovery of an AK-47 rifle, two magazines, and 20 rounds of ammunition.
The Nigerian Army, in a statement, affirmed its continued collaboration with sister agencies to safeguard lives and property and deny criminals freedom of action in the region.
