Troops, DSS uncover alleged IPOB/ESN arms cache in Enugu

Crime Diary

ENUGU, Nigeria (NPA) — Troops of the 82 Division Garrison operating under Sector 1 of Operation UDO KA, in collaboration with operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS), have uncovered an alleged arms cache linked to the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), in Enugu State.

The Nigerian Army said the operation was carried out as part of the ongoing Operation EASTERN SANITY II aimed at consolidating peace and security across the South-East region.

According to a statement issued on Tuesday by the Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, 82 Division, Lt.-Col. Olabisi Olalekan Ayeni, the breakthrough followed actionable intelligence obtained from previously arrested suspects allegedly affiliated with IPOB and ESN.

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Acting on the intelligence, security operatives conducted a precision operation on June 9, 2026, in Gariki, Enugu South Local Government Area of the state.

During the raid, troops uncovered a clandestine arms depot concealed inside a zinc structure disguised as a piggery.

A thorough search of the facility led to the recovery of a large cache of weapons, ammunition, and other military hardware.

Items recovered from the hideout included 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.

The Army said the discovery represents a major operational success in ongoing efforts to dismantle criminal and armed networks threatening peace and stability in the region.

“All recovered items and arrested suspects have been handed over to the DSS Enugu State Command for further investigation and appropriate legal action,” the statement said.

Military authorities noted that the operation highlighted the effectiveness of intelligence-led operations and inter-agency collaboration between security institutions operating in the South-East.

According to the Army, the success further demonstrates the commitment of Operation UDO KA to sustaining offensive operations against criminal elements and armed groups accused of undermining public safety and national unity.

The military reaffirmed its determination to protect lives and property while preserving Nigeria’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.

It also urged members of the public to continue supporting security agencies with timely and credible information capable of assisting ongoing efforts to combat insecurity in the region.

The Army said sustained cooperation between citizens and security agencies remains essential to achieving lasting peace, security, and stability across the South-East.