Troops of the Joint Task Force South East, Operation UDO KA, have recorded major operational successes across the South-East, arresting several suspects, including security personnel allegedly linked to an illegal arms supply network, while recovering firearms, ammunition and other incriminating items.
The Nigerian Army disclosed that the achievements were recorded through intelligence-led operations conducted in collaboration with other security agencies as part of ongoing efforts to combat criminal activities and improve security across the region.
In Cross River State, troops of the 245 Battalion, working alongside operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), raided Balep Community along the Ikom–Ogoja Road. Three suspects were arrested during the operation.
Items recovered included two Dane guns, one locally made pistol, six cartridges, military web equipment, a woodland camouflage jacket, a strike-face metal plate, an axe, and substances suspected to be cannabis. The Army said investigations are ongoing.
In another operation, intelligence provided by the 82 Military Intelligence Brigade led to the arrest of Assistant Superintendent II Obaji Sampson of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) by troops of the 82 Division Provost Group and Sector 2 of Operation UDO KA.
Subsequent investigations reportedly led to the arrest of Superintendent Tasie Victor Nnamdi, the Unit Armourer of the NSCDC Enugu State Command, identified as the alleged principal supplier of the arms, and Assistant Superintendent of Corrections Ekwueme Onyebuchi Clement, who was identified as a major recipient.
According to the Army, the arrests uncovered a suspected illegal arms supply network involving the security personnel.
Acting on further intelligence, troops of the 82 Division Garrison and Sector 1 of Operation UDO KA, in conjunction with the 82 Division Provost Group, also raided a residence on Achara Road in the Trans-Ekulu Golf Estate area of Enugu State, where they arrested Friday Nnanna, described as a suspected member of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), as well as an alleged gun runner.
During the raid, troops recovered 247 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, 12 rounds of 9mm pistol ammunition, 29 live cartridges, four pump-action guns, one Beretta pistol, 11 different vehicle registration plates, materials suspected to be used for manufacturing improvised explosive devices (IEDs), assorted swords, one smoke tear gas canister, military accoutrements, other sundry items and four vehicles.
The Army said the suspect and all recovered exhibits remain in military custody pending further investigation.
It reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining intelligence-driven operations against criminal elements and their support networks, stressing that troops would continue working with other security agencies to protect lives and property and enhance peace, security and stability across the country.