Troops, DSS uncover IPOB, ESN arms cache in Enugu

Troops of the 82 Division Garrison operating under Sector 1 of Operation UDO KA, in collaboration with operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS), have uncovered a suspected arms cache linked to members of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), in Enugu State.

The operation was carried out during a raid on a suspected safe house in Agbani, Nkanu West Local Government Area of the state as part of ongoing intelligence-led operations aimed at dismantling criminal and insurgent networks in the South-East.

According to a statement issued on Thursday by the Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations, 82 Division, Lieutenant Colonel Olabisi Olalekan Ayeni, troops discovered the hideout while conducting Operation Eastern Sanity II, a campaign designed to support peace-building efforts in the region.

Ayeni said a thorough search of the premises led to the recovery of weapons, ammunition and other items allegedly linked to the group.

Items recovered included AK-47 rifles, AK-47 magazines, 323 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition and 10 pairs of uniforms reportedly belonging to IPOB members.

The raid followed an earlier operation conducted on June 9 in the Gariki area of Enugu South Local Government Area, where security forces recorded additional operational successes against suspected criminal elements.

According to the Army, all recovered weapons and materials, as well as arrested suspects, have been handed over to the DSS Enugu State Command for further investigation and possible prosecution.

The military said the operation underscores the commitment of Operation UDO KA to sustaining pressure on criminal and terrorist networks seeking to undermine peace and security in the South-East.

It reaffirmed its resolve to protect lives, secure communities and preserve Nigeria’s territorial integrity, while urging members of the public to continue providing credible and timely information to security agencies.

The Army noted that intelligence sharing and community cooperation remain critical to ongoing efforts to restore lasting peace and stability across the region.