Troops deployed at 9th Mile in Enugu State have rescued five kidnapped victims after repelling an attack on commuters by suspected armed criminals.
Security sources said the incident occurred at about 6:55 p.m. on Feb. 20 when the troops responded to a distress call indicating that assailants had attacked travellers heading towards Anambra State.
On arrival at the scene, the troops engaged the attackers in a gun duel, forcing them to abandon the victims and flee into nearby surroundings.
The sources disclosed that five kidnapped persons were successfully rescued during the operation, while the vehicle used by the victims was also recovered.
It was gathered that the troops expended 11 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition during the encounter.
Security authorities said patrols had been intensified in the area to deny the criminals freedom of action and to forestall further attacks on commuters.
They added that the situation was under control, while surveillance and domination patrols were ongoing.
