Troops arrest gunrunner, dismantle criminal network in South-East

The Nigerian Army has stepped up security operations in the South-East under Operation UDO KA, leading to the arrest of a suspected gunrunner, the disruption of an ambush, and raids on criminal hideouts in Abia and Imo states.

According to an operational update released on Tuesday, troops working alongside other security agencies apprehended the suspect in Ukwa East Local Government Area of Abia State. Initial findings indicate that the individual was part of a network transporting arms to criminal groups through an intermediary based in Bayelsa State.

Military authorities said efforts are ongoing to trace the weapons and dismantle the wider supply chain linked to the suspect.oo

In a separate incident, troops came under attack while inspecting a burnt vehicle along the SPDC–Etekuru road in Ohaji/Egbema Local Government Area of Imo State. The soldiers responded by securing the area, where they recovered two burnt vehicles and two bodies. The remains were evacuated for further procedures.

Further operations in Oguta Local Government Area of Imo State led to a joint raid by troops and local vigilantes on a suspected cultist hideout. Five suspects were arrested during the operation.

One of those detained has reportedly agreed to assist security forces in locating a suspected armoury in the area.

The Army said the operations highlight continued efforts to break up criminal networks and improve security across the region.