Security operatives have uncovered a large cache of weapons and ammunition allegedly belonging to members of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), during a coordinated operation in Enugu State.
Key highlights:
- Security forces uncovered an arms cache linked to Indigenous People of Biafra and its armed wing Eastern Security Network in Enugu State.
- The raid was carried out during Operation EASTERN SANITY II in Gariki, Enugu South LGA.
- The hideout was disguised as a piggery in a zinc structure.
- Weapons recovered included AK-47 rifles, RPG launcher, machine guns, and ammunition.
- Recovered items and suspects were handed over to the DSS for investigation and prosecution.
The operation was carried out on June 9, 2026, by troops of the 82 Division Garrison under Sector 1 of Operation UDO KA, in collaboration with operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS), Enugu State Command, as part of the ongoing Operation EASTERN SANITY II.
According to military authorities, the operation followed credible intelligence obtained from previously arrested suspects linked to IPOB and ESN. Acting on the intelligence, security forces conducted a follow-up raid in Gariki, Enugu South Local Government Area, where they discovered a concealed arms depot.
The hideout, reportedly disguised as a piggery and concealed within a zinc structure, was thoroughly searched by the operatives. During the operation, security personnel recovered a significant quantity of arms and ammunition, including General Purpose Machine Guns (GPMG), an RPG-7 launcher tube, AK-47 rifles, hand grenades, a tear gas gun with cartridges, AK-47 magazines, 270 rounds of 7.62mm NATO ammunition, and 478 rounds of 7.62mm Special ammunition.
Military authorities said all recovered weapons, ammunition, and arrested suspects have been handed over to the DSS Enugu State Command for further investigation and possible prosecution.
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The Army described the operation as a major success, highlighting the effectiveness of intelligence-driven operations and inter-agency collaboration in combating criminal and terrorist activities in the South-East region.
The Army noted that the achievement reflects the commitment of Operation UDO KA to sustaining offensive actions against groups threatening peace, public safety, and national unity.
Authorities also urged members of the public to continue providing timely and credible information to security agencies to support ongoing efforts aimed at restoring lasting peace and security across the South-East.
