The Nigerian Army has intensified its crackdown on criminal and militant networks in the South-East following an operation in Ogbaru Local Government Area of Anambra State that uncovered weapons and materials believed to be used in the production of improvised explosive devices (IEDs).
The operation, carried out by troops alongside the Army’s maritime component, the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Anambra vigilante group, targeted suspected IPOB/ESN strongholds in Obene and Abator villages within Ochuche and Umunankwo communities.
According to the Army, troops launched the operation at dawn, prompting suspected members of the group to engage the advancing forces before abandoning their positions and fleeing into surrounding areas.
The military said blood stains found along the escape route suggested that some of the fleeing suspects were wounded during the encounter.
One suspected member was reportedly neutralised during the pursuit, while the Army said other fleeing members escaped with the body of another person killed in the operation.
Beyond the gun battle, the military said the major outcome of the operation was the discovery of materials allegedly linked to IED production.
Two pump-action guns, two motorcycles and IED-making materials were recovered alongside other items from the suspected hideouts.
The Army described the seizure of the explosive-making materials as a significant operational breakthrough, saying it would weaken the ability of the group to manufacture explosives for attacks on security personnel, civilians and critical infrastructure.
Following the raid, troops reportedly remained in the area and expanded their search into surrounding locations to prevent the suspected militants from regrouping or establishing new bases.
The operation was conducted under Joint Task Force South-East, Operation UDO KA, as security agencies continue efforts to dismantle criminal networks and prevent attacks across the region.
The Army said it would sustain operations aimed at denying terrorist and criminal elements safe havens while improving security for communities and residents across the South-East.
