By Joy Onu
Nigerian Army troops have intensified operations in Enugu State, dismantling suspected camps linked to separatist and criminal elements during coordinated offensives that also led to the recovery of an improvised explosive device and the arrest of a suspected kidnapping financier.
The operations, carried out on 14 April 2026 under Operation EASTERN SANITY with air support from Operation UDO KA, took place in Ajali Forest, Ezeagu Local Government Area, and Adani in Uzo-Uwani Local Government Area, both in Enugu State.
During the forest clearance in Ajali, troops engaged suspected armed elements believed to be operating in the area, forcing them to flee and abandon their positions. An anti-tank improvised explosive device was recovered during the sweep and immediately neutralised by Explosive Ordnance Disposal personnel.
A military source said the troops acted on credible intelligence and maintained sustained pressure throughout the operation. “The area was decisively cleared, and the suspects were dislodged from their positions,” the source stated.
Following the engagement, soldiers continued clearance operations in the forest, dismantling suspected hideouts and temporary camps used for coordination and concealment.
In the second operation in Adani, troops of the 82 Division Garrison, acting on intelligence from the Department of State Services, intercepted a suspected kidnapping syndicate linked to ransom collection activities.
A suspect was arrested with a pump-action rifle and ₦2 million in cash, believed to be proceeds of kidnapping operations. Security sources confirmed that the suspect is in custody and undergoing interrogation, while recovered items have been handed over for further investigation and possible prosecution.
The Nigerian Army said the operations reflect ongoing efforts to degrade criminal networks and restore stability in the South-East, reaffirming its commitment to sustained clearance and counter-criminal operations in the region.
