By Harriet Tornguvan
Security forces have uncovered a major arms cache allegedly linked to the outlawed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), during a joint operation in Enugu State.
The operation, carried out 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, was described as a significant breakthrough in ongoing efforts to sustain peace and security across the South-East region.
According to a statement issued by the Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, 82 Division, Lieutenant Colonel Olabisi Olalekan Ayeni, the operation was conducted on June 9, 2026, following credible intelligence obtained from suspects previously arrested for alleged links to IPOB and ESN activities.
Ayeni disclosed that security operatives launched a precision follow-up raid in Gariki, Enugu South Local Government Area, where they uncovered a concealed arms depot hidden inside a zinc structure disguised as a piggery.
A thorough search of the facility led to the recovery of a large cache of weapons and ammunition. Items recovered included General Purpose Machine Guns (GPMGs), an RPG-7 launcher tube, AK-47 rifles, hand grenades, a tear gas gun with cartridges, several AK-47 magazines, 270 rounds of 7.62mm NATO ammunition and 478 rounds of 7.62mm Special ammunition.
The Army spokesman said all recovered weapons and arrested suspects had been handed over to the DSS Enugu State Command for further investigation and possible prosecution.
He noted that the successful operation highlighted the effectiveness of intelligence-sharing and inter-agency cooperation among security agencies operating in the region.
“The operation underscores proactive efforts aimed at neutralising threats to public safety and national unity, while demonstrating the commitment of Operation UDO KA to sustaining offensive actions against criminal and terrorist elements in the South-East,” the statement said.
The military further reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding lives and property, preserving national sovereignty and maintaining peace in the region.
Residents were urged to continue supporting security agencies by providing timely and credible information that could aid ongoing efforts to dismantle criminal networks and enhance security across the South-East.
The discovery comes amid intensified operations by security forces under Operation EASTERN SANITY II, a campaign designed to curb violent activities and restore lasting peace in the region.
