The Nigerian Army has intensified security operations in the South-East under Operation UDO KA, resulting in the arrest of a suspected gunrunner, the disruption of an ambush, and coordinated raids on criminal hideouts in Abia and Imo states.
According to an operational update on Tuesday, troops working alongside other security agencies detained the suspect in Ukwa East Local Government Area, Abia State. Preliminary investigations suggest the individual was part of a network ferrying weapons to criminal groups via an intermediary based in Bayelsa State. Military authorities have confirmed that efforts to trace the weapons and dismantle the wider supply chain are ongoing.
In a separate incident, troops came under attack while inspecting a burnt vehicle along the SPDC–Etekuru road in Ohaji/Egbema Local Government Area, Imo State. Soldiers swiftly secured the area, recovering two burnt vehicles and two bodies, which have since been evacuated for further examination.
Further operations in Oguta Local Government Area, Imo State, saw troops and local vigilantes raid a suspected cultist hideout, leading to the arrest of five suspects. One of the detainees has reportedly agreed to help security forces locate a suspected armoury in the area.
The Army said the latest operations underscore its sustained push to dismantle criminal networks and enhance regional security.