Combined security team in Calabar has recovered arms in a forest in Iso-Bendeghe village, Boki Local Government Area of Cross River State abandoned by suspected hoodlums.
The hoodlums, had stockpiled the arms after an attack on a police outpost and destruction of a police operational vehicle and other property.
They are also strongly suspected to have been responsible for the violence that rocked the village last month.
On the directive of the State Commissioner of Police, CP Rashid Afegbua, a combined team of police personnel, soldiers, and other security operatives stormed the forest where the hoodlums chose as their hideout.
Items recovered during the operation, led by the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of the Boki Division, include, five locally-made firearms, expended cartridges and machetes.
Others are clubs, motorcycles, cooking utensils, bottles of assorted alcoholic drinks, dangerous charms, and other items.
Confirming the development in a statement, Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) Irene Ugbo said the Commissioner had ordered the operation following the attack on the 75 PMF Patrol Team at Iso-Bendeghe around 11:45 p.m. on August 5, 2025.
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According to Ugbo, the assailants reportedly fled into the nearby forest after the assault where they camped.
Ugbo explained that the raid into the forest was part of a pursuit of the perpetrators, who are strongly suspected to have been responsible for the violence that rocked the village last month.
She also noted that the soldiers involved in the operation were drawn from the 245 Battalion in Ikom.
“Upon sensing the presence of the team, the hoodlums fled into the bush, abandoning the items that were later recovered,” Ugbo stated.
She added, “The Command will not tolerate any form of attack on security personnel assuring residents to go about their normal activities without fear, as adequate security measures have been put in place.