Photos: Army Burst Criminal Network In Imo, Recover Weapons

Troops of the 34 Artillery Brigade of the Nigerian Army under the Joint Task Force South East, Operation UDO KA, have arrested a suspected armourer and logistics courier linked to attacks on oil installations and security personnel in Imo State.

Naija News reports that the operation, which was based on credible intelligence, also led to the recovery of a cache of arms and ammunition believed to have been used by the criminal network.

The Nigerian Army said the operation was carried out in the early hours of July 1, 2026, during a deliberate search-and-raid mission along the Akpe Aggah-Egbema Forest axis.

The suspect was apprehended at the Obiakpu Forest in Imo State.

According to the military in a statement released via its official 𝕏 handle on Thursday, preliminary investigations revealed that the suspect served as the principal armourer and logistics coordinator for the criminal group responsible for attacks on oil installations and troops operating in the Ohaji-Egbema area.

The Army said troops recovered a significant cache of weapons and ammunition during the operation, dealing a major blow to the group’s operational capability.

Items recovered include one AK-47 rifle, one M4A1 carbine, one M16A2 rifle, six magazines, five pump-action guns, one locally fabricated pistol and a large quantity of assorted ammunition.

The military described the recovery as a major disruption to the group’s logistics chain and operational activities.

The Army said the suspect remained in custody and would undergo further investigation to aid follow-up operations aimed at dismantling the criminal network.

According to the military, intelligence obtained from the suspect is expected to assist troops in identifying and apprehending other members and collaborators of the syndicate.

The Nigerian Army reiterated its commitment to sustaining offensive operations against criminal elements threatening national security and critical economic assets.

It urged members of the public to continue supporting security agencies by providing timely, credible and actionable intelligence through established security channels to enhance ongoing operations across the South-East.