Troops of the Nigerian Army operating under the 82 Division and the Joint Task Force South-East, Operation UDO KA (OPUK), have raided a suspected criminal hideout in Imo State, recovering a pump-action gun, military-style clothing and other incriminating items.
The operation, which was based on actionable intelligence, was carried out by troops of the 34 Artillery Brigade in Obiakpu Community, Ohaji/Egbema Local Government Area of the state.
Security sources disclosed on Friday that the raid was a follow-up to intelligence obtained from a suspected logistics courier and armourer who had earlier been arrested by troops during ongoing operations in the region.
According to the sources, soldiers embarked on the intelligence-driven mission on July 3, navigating difficult terrain to reach the hideout believed to be used by criminal elements operating in the area.
Upon arrival, the troops reportedly engaged the suspects, who fled into nearby bushes after encountering what the sources described as superior firepower from the military.
“The operation was conducted following credible intelligence obtained from a suspected logistics supplier and armourer previously arrested by troops. Acting on the information, soldiers advanced to the identified hideout in Obiakpu Community where the suspects abandoned the camp and escaped upon sighting the troops,” a security source said.
Items recovered from the hideout included a pump-action shotgun, military camouflage clothing and other materials believed to have been used by the fleeing suspects.
Military authorities said efforts are ongoing to track down and apprehend the fleeing criminals, while troops continue to dominate the area to prevent the suspects from regrouping.
The latest operation forms part of sustained military offensives under Operation UDO KA aimed at dismantling criminal networks, neutralising armed groups and restoring security across the South-East region.
Security agencies have intensified intelligence-led operations in Imo and neighbouring states in recent months as part of broader efforts to curb violent attacks, illegal arms trafficking and other criminal activities threatening peace and stability in the region.
