Troops Conduct Offensive Operation, Disrupt Suspected Criminal Camps in Imo

By: Zagazola Makama 

Troops of 34 Artillery Brigade, deployed at Forward Operating Base Okigwe under Operation UDO KA, have conducted an offensive operation targeting suspected criminal elements in Okigwe Local Government Area of Imo State.

Zagazola gathered  that the operation followed intercepted communication indicating suspected activities of IPOB/ESN-linked elements around Umuajika Hall in Umulolo community.

The sources said troops advanced along the axis on April 29 and encountered a suspected checkpoint mounted by the group at Umulolo, leading to an exchange of fire that forced the suspects to flee.

According to the sources, troops recovered one locally fabricated firearm, one motorcycle, 81 rounds of 5.56 x 45mm ammunition, and an NYSC certificate at the scene.

They added that further clearance operations along the Umulolo–Ebenetiti road led to the discovery and destruction of another suspected criminal hideout, including a shrine where materials suspected to be used for improvised explosive device (IED) fabrication were found and destroyed in situ.

The sources further disclosed that troops proceeded through DSS Camp Ebenetiti to Limka, where a twin IED was discovered and safely neutralised.

Additional search at Limka roundabout reportedly led to the recovery of two cylinders and metallic shrapnel suspected to be used for IED production.

They said troops have continued clearance operations in the general area to deny criminal elements freedom of action.