In a fierce and high-stakes operation, troops of the Nigerian Army under Operation UDO KA have dismantled a fortified camp allegedly belonging to the Eastern Security Network (ESN) in Ugwunagbo Local Government Area of Abia State, leading to the recovery of a staggering cache of arms, cash, and logistics — but at the cost of one soldier’s life.
According to an exclusive Special Situation Report (SITREP) obtained by SaharaReporters on Friday, the raid was executed in the early hours of Thursday, May 23, following credible intelligence about the presence of a notorious ESN stronghold in the Ebubengwa/Abayi Nchokoro axis.
The coordinated assault, which was spearheaded by the commander of 144 Battalion (Rear), involved a formidable deployment of six platoons — each comprising 49 battle-ready soldiers — supported by an armoured personnel carrier (APC), a gun truck, and six Hilux vehicles.
The operation, executed with military precision, resulted in the total destruction and neutralization of the militant enclave. In the aftermath, troops recovered a massive haul of deadly weapons, including:
1 × Rocket-Propelled Grenade (RPG) launcher
1 × General Purpose Machine Gun (GPMG)
4 × AK-47 rifles
1 × G3 rifle
3 × Pump-action shotguns
800 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition
648 rounds of 7.62mm NATO rounds
Additional seized items included:
Two power-generating sets
Laptops, mobile phones, CCTV systems
A Wi-Fi router, external hard drives
Ritual garments believed to be used for spiritual fortification
Food supplies
A mind-blowing ₦11.75 million and $27,000 in cash
The troops also uncovered and torched a large spiritual shrine believed to have been used by the militants for rituals and fortification. Several vehicles and motorcycles were also discovered and destroyed, including:
1 × Honda Pilot SUV
2 × Toyota Highlander SUVs
1 × Toyota Hiace Bus
1 × Mini bus
1 × Tricycle
2 × Motorcycles
The encounter was not without fierce resistance. As soldiers launched their assault, heavy gunfire ensued, pushing the militants into disarray and forcing them to flee under intense firepower. Blood trails were found at the scene, indicating possible high casualties among the insurgents, although no specific number was confirmed.
Unfortunately, the military operation came at a cost. One brave soldier was killed in action (KIA), while two others — an officer and a soldier — sustained injuries. The deceased’s body has been deposited at the Federal Medical Centre, Umuahia, and next of kin have been notified. The wounded personnel are currently receiving treatment at a medical facility in Aba and are said to be responding well.
During the firefight, the Nigerian troops expended approximately 630 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition and 235 rounds of 12.7mm rounds, reflecting the intensity of the battle.
As of the time of this report, the Nigerian Army has secured the area, with troops conducting continuous patrols to maintain operational dominance and prevent any regrouping by hostile elements.
This operation is considered one of the most significant blows dealt to the ESN in recent times and underscores the military’s resolve to root out armed groups threatening national security in the Southeast.
PIONEER NEWS 