Security Forces Uncover IPOB Arms Hideout In Enugu

A combined team of security operatives has uncovered a clandestine arms cache hidden in a structure disguised as a piggery in Enugu State, allegedly linked to the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN).

In a statement issued by the Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, 82 Division Nigerian Army, Lt.-Col. Olabisi Ayeni, the operation was carried out by troops of the 82 Division Garrison under Sector 1, Operation UDO KA, in collaboration with operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS), Enugu State Command.

The operation, according to the statement, was conducted on June 9, 2026, as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen peacebuilding operations in the South-East.

Ayeni said the troops acted on credible intelligence obtained from previously arrested suspects linked to IPOB and ESN, leading to a follow-up operation in Gariki, Enugu South Local Government Area.

He explained that the site, concealed within a zinc structure disguised as a piggery, was carefully searched, resulting in the recovery of a significant cache of weapons and ammunition.

Items recovered include General Purpose Machine Guns, 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 statement said all recovered arms and arrested suspects have been handed over to the DSS Enugu State Command for further investigation and prosecution.

It added that the operation highlights the effectiveness of inter-agency collaboration in tackling threats to national security and maintaining public safety in the region.

Operation UDO KA reaffirmed its commitment to sustained offensive operations against criminal and terrorist networks undermining peace in the South-East, while urging residents to continue providing timely and credible intelligence to security agencies.

The theatre further assured the public of its dedication to protecting citizens and preserving national sovereignty through coordinated security operations.