Stephen Ukandu, Umuahia
The Nigerian Army has announced the discovery of improvised explosive devices at Umuchima Forest in Abia State.
This, according to a statement by the Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, 14 Brigade Ohafia, Capt. Mazinho Attah, is part of intensified efforts to curb the activities of criminal elements in the state.
The discovery, according to the statement, was made on Sunday morning during a clearance operation by troops of 14 Brigade.
The statement read in part: “On 8 February 2026, at about 9:00 a.m., troops of the Brigade, while conducting clearance operations along the Umuchima pipeline route leading into the forest, discovered two improvised explosive devices (IEDs).
“The IEDs were locally fabricated using 5kg gas cylinders, nails, water-gel explosives, two detonators, and electrical cables.
“Further exploitation of the area led to the recovery of four empty cartridge cases and two bags containing nails. Troops also successfully cleared a camp belonging to the criminal elements.
“The success followed credible intelligence provided by a suspect currently under investigation, who earlier confessed to being a subject expert.”
Fingering the Eastern Security Network (ESN), the statement said the Army recorded a significant operational success as part of ongoing shaping operations ahead of the Brigade’s Operation Eastern Sanity offensive against criminals.
The statement quoted the Brigade Commander, Brigadier General Ahmad Mansur Dikko, as expressing satisfaction “with the professionalism, resilience and doggedness exhibited by the troops.”
It noted that “further exploitation of the Umuchima Forest is ongoing.”
The statement added: “The general security situation within the Brigade’s Area of Responsibility remains calm but unpredictable, while troops continue to maintain maximum vigilance. Troop morale and fighting efficiency remain high and satisfactory.”
