Troops foil highway attack, rescue five commuters

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 February 20 when troops responded to a distress call reporting that gunmen had attacked travellers heading toward Anambra State.

On reaching the scene, the troops engaged the attackers in a gunfight, forcing them to abandon the victims and flee into nearby bushes.

Five kidnapped persons were successfully freed during the operation, and the vehicle belonging to the victims was recovered.

Sources added that troops fired 11 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition during the encounter.

Security authorities said patrols have since been intensified in the area to restrict the activities of criminal elements and prevent further attacks on road users.

They added that the situation remains under control, with surveillance and domination patrols continuing across the corridor.