Joint Security Operation Leads to Arrest of three Suspects, Recovery of four AK-47 Rifles and Ammunition as Enugu Intensifies Fight against Kidnapping.
Enugu Media Village (EMV), the Most Updated Online News Platform | September 3, 2026.
ENUGU — Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah of Enugu State has commended the intelligence and security agencies operating in the state following the arrest of three suspected members of the kidnapping gang allegedly responsible for the August 2, 2026 attack on St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, Inoyi-Affa, in Udi Local Government Area.
The suspects were apprehended during a joint intelligence-led operation involving the Department of State Services (DSS), Nigerian Army, Nigeria Police Force, Enugu State Forest Guard and other security personnel.
During the operation, one suspected member of the gang was reportedly killed in a gun battle, while security operatives recovered four AK-47 rifles and a quantity of ammunition.
Governor Mbah expressed his appreciation for the courage and professionalism displayed by the security agencies, describing the development as a significant breakthrough in the ongoing efforts to protect the lives and property of residents across Enugu State.
The governor made the commendation after visiting the Enugu State DSS headquarters, where he inspected the arrested suspects. He was represented during the visit by the Secretary to the State Government, Professor Chidiebere Onyia.
The August 2 attack on St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Inoyi-Affa occurred during morning worship and resulted in the abduction of several persons. Two of the rescued victims subsequently identified the apprehended suspects as members of the gang allegedly responsible for the attack.
The latest arrests have been described as an important development in the state’s ongoing security campaign, particularly as security agencies continue intelligence-led operations against kidnapping and other violent crimes.
The Enugu State Government has reiterated its commitment to supporting security agencies and strengthening measures aimed at safeguarding communities across the state.
The development also comes amid broader security operations in Enugu, with the state Police Command subsequently reporting the arrest of additional suspected members of an organised kidnapping network allegedly connected to several abductions within and outside the state.
The administration of Governor Mbah has maintained that criminals operating in Enugu will face sustained security pressure, while residents have been encouraged to continue providing useful information to security agencies.
For Ndi Enugu, the arrest represents a significant step in the continuing fight against insecurity and reinforces the importance of coordinated intelligence and inter-agency cooperation in confronting criminal networks.
Enugu Media Village (EMV), the Most Updated Online News Platform, will continue to monitor developments surrounding the investigation and provide Ndi Enugu with verified updates on security and other major developments across the state.