Troops of Joint Task Force South-East, Operation UDO KA, have arrested a suspected armourer and logistics courier linked to attacks on oil installations and security operatives in Imo. The Nigerian Army disclosed this in a statement on Facebook and X on Thursday.

It said the operation was conducted by troops of the 34 Artillery Brigade following credible intelligence.

The army said troops carried out a search-and-raid operation along the Akpe Aggah–Egbema Forest axis in the early hours of July 1, leading to the suspect’s arrest at Obiakpu Forest.

According to the post, preliminary investigations indicate that the suspect served as the principal armourer for a criminal group responsible for attacks on oil installations and troops deployed to the Ohaji-Egbema area.

It said the operation led to the recovery of one AK-47 rifle, one M4A1 carbine, one M16A2 rifle, six magazines, five pump-action guns, a locally fabricated pistol and a large quantity of assorted ammunition.

The army said the recovery significantly disrupted the criminal group’s operational capabilities and logistics network.

It added that the suspect remained in custody and would undergo further investigation to facilitate follow-on operations to apprehend other members and collaborators of the network.

The army reaffirmed its commitment to sustain aggressive operations against criminal elements that threaten national security and economic assets.

It urged the public to provide timely and credible information through established security channels.

(NAN)