In a swift and coordinated operation, security operatives have successfully rescued two Catholic Reverend Sisters and seven other abducted individuals in Eburumiri, Ibagwa-Aka, Igbo-Eze South Local Government Area of Enugu State.
The victims, who were kidnapped on Saturday, April 26, 2025, between the hours of 8 and 9PM, were safely recovered after days of intensive efforts by a joint team comprising the Nigeria Police Force, military personnel, local vigilante groups, the Igbo-Eze South Neighbourhood Watch, and Forest Guards.
Confirming the development, the Executive Chairman of Igbo-Eze South LGA, Barr. Ugo Ferdinand Ukwueze, described the rescue as a triumph of unity, resilience, and effective security collaboration. He stated that all nine victims were now receiving medical evaluation and psychological support, and have been reunited with their families.
“We are deeply grateful for the bravery and doggedness of our security agencies. Their prompt action and strategic coordination made this success possible,” Ukwueze said.
He extended special appreciation to the Governor of Enugu State, His Excellency, Dr. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, for his rapid intervention and robust investment in the security architecture of the state. According to the council boss, the Governor’s support bolstered the rescue efforts and sent a clear message that criminality will not be tolerated in Enugu.
While commending the efforts of the military, police, and local security operatives, Ukwueze noted that investigations were ongoing to apprehend the perpetrators of the heinous act. “Let it be known: there will be no safe haven for criminals in Igbo-Eze South,” he declared.
The chairman further announced that the local government would immediately commence a total overhaul of its security framework, including the retraining and reequipping of its Neighborhood Watch operatives and the launch of new community-based vigilance initiatives.
“This incident is a wake-up call,” Ukwueze said. “Security is not just the responsibility of the government—it is a shared duty. We must all remain vigilant.”
The incident and its aftermath have sparked renewed calls for tighter community security and proactive intelligence gathering across the region.
