Troops operating under Operation UDO KA have discovered a suspected hideout linked to members of the outlawed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed faction, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), in Enugu State.
The development was revealed in an operational update obtained by the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Thursday in Abuja.
According to the military, the operation was conducted by personnel of the 82 Division Garrison and Sector 1 of Operation UDO KA, working in collaboration with operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) in Enugu State.
The report indicated that the successful operation stemmed from actionable intelligence gathered from individuals apprehended during previous security operations targeted at weakening the activities and operational networks of suspected IPOB/ESN members within the South-East region.
Acting on the intelligence, security operatives tracked and located the suspected safe house in Agbani, located within the Nkanu West Local Government Area of Enugu State.
A thorough search of the premises reportedly led to the discovery of a cache of weapons and other items believed to be connected to the activities of the group.
Among the items recovered were eight AK-47 rifles and 12 magazines designed for the assault rifles. Security personnel also recovered a tear gas launcher, two tear gas canisters, and 323 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition.
In addition to the weapons, troops reportedly found 10 pairs of uniforms allegedly associated with members of the proscribed group.
The army stated that all recovered exhibits have been handed over to the DSS Enugu State Command for further investigation and appropriate action.
Military authorities noted that the operation forms part of ongoing efforts to dismantle criminal networks and disrupt the activities of armed groups operating within the region. They added that intelligence-driven operations would continue in collaboration with other security agencies to enhance stability and improve security across the South-East.
The discovery of the suspected hideout is seen as another step in the continuing campaign by security forces to curb violent activities and prevent the proliferation of illegal weapons in the area.
