By Sophia Afolabi
A major offensive by Nigerian troops under Operation UDO KA has led to the dismantling of a suspected Eastern Security Network (ESN) camp in Abia State, yielding a trove of weapons, cash, and surveillance equipment — but also resulting in the death of a soldier.
Acting on “actionable intelligence on the presence of an ESN stronghold in the Ebubengwa/Abayi Nchokoro community,” troops of the 144 Battalion launched a pre-dawn raid in Ugwunagbo Local Government Area.
The military operation, involving six platoons supported by armored vehicles and gun trucks, resulted in the recovery of heavy arms, including a rocket-propelled grenade, four AK-47 rifles, and 800 rounds of 7.62mm ammunition.
“The operation led to the complete dislodgement and destruction of the camp,” the report stated. “Troops recovered a significant cache of arms and logistics.”
Also seized were ₦11.75 million and $27,000 in cash, laptops, ritual vests, and multiple SUVs and motorcycles. A shrine used for spiritual activities was also destroyed.
In the ensuing firefight, militants reportedly fled “under heavy firepower, leaving behind blood trails.” The army said it suffered one fatality and two wounded in action.
The fallen soldier was evacuated to the Federal Medical Centre in Umuahia, while the injured are being treated in Aba. Army authorities say the area is now secure, with ongoing patrols maintaining control and preventing regrouping by hostile elements.
