The Nigerian Army has carried out several effective operations against armed rebel organisations, demolishing hideouts and apprehending major criminal figures in South Eastern Nigeria and Plateau State.
During a massive raid on an Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and Eastern Security Network (ESN) stronghold in Enugwu Umuonyia, Anambra State, forces engaged in a shootout.
Overpowered, the militants retreated, leaving behind a massive stockpile of weapons and logistics supplies. The Army recovered 78 rounds of 7.62mm ammunition, 13 rounds of 9mm ammunition, 20 live cartridges, a pump-action rifle, a locally made handgun, an AK-56 magazine, and six cars.
“These decisive actions underscore the Nigerian Army’s resolve to eradicate all threats to national security,” stated the Army’s official report.
“On 9 October 2024, in Plateau State, troops intercepted a known gunrunner, Mathew Caleb, during a precision stop-and-search operation on the Mangar-Bokkos road.
“Caleb, 35, was found with a fabricated revolver rifle, a pistol, 23 rounds of 7.62mm ammunition, and two rounds of 9mm ammunition.
The Army’s report noted, “The suspect was en route to Bokkos town to deliver the deadly weapons to buyers when troops thwarted his mission.”
The operation also apprehended two armed motorbike thieves and a robber in the Bokkos Local Government Area, thereby eliminating local criminal concerns.
The Nigerian Army claimed a separate, significant win over Boko Haram forces in Borno State when 15 fighters and their families surrendered to soldiers in Gwoza and Bama.