Troops of the Joint Task Force, South-East, Operation UDO KA, have recovered five firearms from a suspected arms cache in Azia community, Ihiala Local Government Area of Anambra State, following the arrest of suspected arms traffickers.
The operation also led to the arrest of a 31-year-old bar owner, identified as Ikenna Oklie, popularly known as “Big Star,” who was allegedly linked to the storage of the weapons.
According to the military, the raid followed the arrest of suspected arms racketeers who, during interrogation, allegedly disclosed that the firearms were kept at the premises of Prince Bar in Azia community.
Acting on the information, troops reportedly raided the location and arrested Oklie for further questioning.
A preliminary interrogation of the suspect subsequently led to the recovery of three pump-action guns and two locally fabricated firearms, bringing the total number of weapons recovered to five.
The military said the operation was part of ongoing efforts to dismantle illegal arms trafficking networks and prevent criminal groups from accessing weapons that could threaten lives and public safety.
The suspects are currently in the custody of the 302 Artillery Regiment for further investigation and possible legal action.
Operation UDO KA reiterated its commitment to tackling criminal networks, curbing the proliferation of illegal firearms and sustaining security across the South-East.
The Joint Task Force also urged members of the public to provide credible and timely information to security agencies to support ongoing operations and strengthen security in the region.
