In a significant advancement in the ongoing campaign against terrorism and insurgency, troops of the Nigerian Army have successfully identified and neutralized a prominent firearms and drone manufacturing facility operated by armed elements associated with the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its affiliated militia, the Eastern Security Network (ESN). The facility, located in Onicha Ulona within the Aniocha South Local Government Area of Delta State, was uncovered through a meticulously planned intelligence-led operation.
According to a statement released by Major General Onyema Nwachukwu, Director of Army Public Relations, the operation revealed that the dissident groups were utilizing the facility to conduct illicit activities aimed at instilling fear among neighboring communities and innocent civilians. Despite encountering staunch resistance upon raiding the illegal facility, the troops managed to prevail over the armed insurgents in a fierce firefight. Consequently, two of the insurgents were neutralized, and a significant cache of arms and ammunition was seized.
Nwachukwu further disclosed that the operation led to the discovery of an array of firearms associated with IPOB/ESN, along with ammunition, an Improvised Explosive Device (IED), and a drone production facility. Additionally, various weapons, partially assembled drones, prototype models, materials for IED construction, a fully equipped workshop, and multiple power generating sets were among the items confiscated by the troops.
During the operation, four male and two female militants were apprehended by the Nigerian Army forces. Assuring the public of the unwavering dedication of the troops to dismantling terrorist and insurgent networks, Nwachukwu emphasized the imperative of ongoing support from the populace for the Nigerian Army and other security agencies. Such support, he stressed, is crucial in their collective endeavor to restore peace and stability across the nation.
