Joint security operatives and troops of Operation UDO KA have recorded fresh security gains in Edo and Ebonyi states following separate operations that led to the recovery of locally fabricated firearms and other items from suspected criminal elements.
Security sources said operatives of the 4 Brigade of the Nigerian Army, in collaboration with the Nigeria Police Force and local hunters, raided suspected criminal hideouts in Emu Forest in Esan South-East Local Government Area of Edo State at about 8:00 a.m. on May 18, 2026.
The joint team reportedly stormed Otoho and Nnamdo camps within the forest, believed to be used by criminal elements as operational bases.
During the raid, security operatives recovered one locally fabricated firearm, several weapon components, three cutlasses and one motorcycle.
The recovered items were subsequently handed over to the police for further investigation and necessary action.
Sources said the ongoing operations in the area were part of sustained efforts to dismantle criminal networks and restore calm in the region.
In a related development, troops of Sector 2, Operation UDO KA, recovered a locally fabricated firearm and ammunition after suspected criminals abandoned a bag and fled during a night patrol in Ebonyi State.
Military sources disclosed that the incident occurred at about 11:00 p.m. on May 18, 2026, when troops deployed at Forward Operating Base (FOB) Izzi were conducting patrols within the Ibeagu area of Izzi Local Government Area.
According to the sources, the troops sighted two suspicious individuals carrying a bag. The suspects reportedly abandoned the bag and escaped into a nearby bush on noticing the patrol team.
A search of the abandoned bag led to the recovery of one locally made pistol and a cartridge.
The sources added that efforts were ongoing to track down and apprehend the fleeing suspects, while security patrols had been intensified across the area to prevent further criminal activities.
