Troops of the Nigerian Army have uncovered improvised explosive devices in a forest at Umuchinma community, Isiala Ngwa North Local Government Area of Abia State.
The discovery was made by soldiers of the 14 Brigade, Ohafia, during intensified security operations aimed at dismantling criminal activities linked to the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra and its armed affiliate, the Eastern Security Network.
In a statement issued on Monday, the Acting Assistant Director of Army Public Relations for the Brigade, Captain Mazinho Atta, said the operation formed part of preparatory activities ahead of Operation Eastern Sanity.
According to him, the devices were uncovered on February 8, 2026, at about 9:00 a.m., during a clearance patrol along the Umuchinma pipeline corridor leading into the forest.
“During the operation, troops discovered two improvised explosive devices concealed within the forested area,” Atta said.
He explained that preliminary examination revealed that the IEDs were locally fabricated using gas cylinders weighing about five kilograms, nails, water-gel explosives, detonators, and electrical cables.
Atta added that further search of the area led to the recovery of additional items, including four empty cartridge shells and two bags containing nails believed to be intended for the manufacture of more explosive devices.
“Further exploitation of the location also resulted in the clearing of a camp used by the criminal elements,” he stated, adding that the success of the operation followed intelligence provided by a suspect currently undergoing investigation.
The Brigade Commander, Brigadier General A. M. Dikko, praised the troops for their professionalism and commitment, noting that clearance operations in the area were still ongoing.
“While the general security situation within the Brigade’s area of responsibility remains relatively calm, it is still unpredictable. Troops are therefore maintaining maximum vigilance to prevent any security breach,” Dikko said.
The Army reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining pressure on criminal groups and ensuring the safety of residents across Abia State and neighbouring communities.
