The Nigerian Army has conducted a major raid on a suspected Eastern Security Network (ESN) camp located in the Ugwunagbo Local Government Area of Abia State. The operation, which occurred in the early hours of May 23, resulted in the death of one soldier and injuries to two others.
According to a Special Situation Report (SITREP) from the 144 Battalion (Rear), obtained by SaharaReporters, the raid was carried out based on credible intelligence. It involved six platoons of 49 soldiers each, led by the unit commander and supported by one Armoured Personnel Carrier (APC), a gun truck, and six Hilux vehicles.
The army’s Operation UDO KA launched the attack on the militant camp reportedly tied to the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, ESN, in the Ebubengwa/Abayi Nchokoro community.
The army said the operation resulted in the complete destruction of the militant base and the recovery of a large cache of arms and logistics, including:
- 1 Rocket-Propelled Grenade (RPG)
- 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 ammunition
Other recovered items included two power generators, mobile phones, laptops, external hard drives, a Wi-Fi router, CCTV cameras, ritual garments, food supplies, and a significant amount of cash—₦11.75 million and $27,000.
Troops also discovered a large shrine believed to be used for spiritual activities. Several vehicles and motorcycles were found and destroyed, including:
- 1 Honda Pilot SUV
- 2 Toyota Highlander SUVs
- 1 Toyota Hiace bus
- 1 mini bus
- 1 tricycle
- 2 motorcycles
The report confirmed that during the firefight, militants fled the scene under heavy fire, leaving blood trails behind. However, the number of militant casualties could not be immediately confirmed.
Sadly, one soldier was killed in the operation, while two others—a soldier and an officer—were wounded. The deceased was taken to the Federal Medical Centre in Umuahia. The wounded personnel are receiving treatment in Aba and are said to be in stable condition.
During the exchange of fire, the troops fired a total of 630 rounds of 7.62mm special and 235 rounds of 12.7mm ammunition. The army says the entire camp, including the shrine and all vehicles, was destroyed to prevent any regrouping.
The military has since secured the area and is conducting ongoing patrols to maintain control and prevent a resurgence of militant activities.
