*TROOPS RAIDED SUSPECTED IPOB/ESN HIDEOUT, RECOVER WEAPONS IN ABIA*
Troops of 14 Brigade Nigerian Army, in collaboration with personnel of 14 Military Intelligence Regiment (14 MIR) and other security agencies, have arrested two suspected members of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB)/Eastern Security Network (ESN) during a carefully coordinated cordon-and-search operation in Arochukwu Local Government Area of Abia State.
The intelligence-led operation, conducted in the early hours of Tuesday, 14 July 2026, targeted selected residences in Atan and Uhuru villages of Ihechiowa Community. During the operation, troops arrested one 56 year old Mr. James Uchechukwu Amah of Atan Village and Mr. Kalu Nnachi of Uhuru Village, both suspected to be members of the proscribed IPOB/ESN.
Items recovered during the operation included one pump-action gun, five cartridges, two jack knives, one machete, and three mobile phones.
While attempting to evade arrest, Mr James Uchechukwu Amah, who was linked to a recovered pump-action gun, sustained a gunshot wound to his left foot. However, he was immediately given medical treatment at 14 Brigade Medical Center and is in stable condition.
The suspects are currently in military custody and are undergoing further investigation, after which they will be handed over to the appropriate authorities for prosecution in accordance with the extant law.
This feat reaffirms the Nigerian Army’s commitment to sustaining intelligence-driven operations aimed at dismantling criminal networks and ensuring lasting peace and security across Abia State and the wider SouthEast Region. Meanwhile, law-abiding residents are encouraged to continue supporting security agencies with timely and credible information to enhance ongoing efforts to rid communities of criminal elements.
*MAZINHO ATTAH*
Captain
Assistant Director Army Public Relations
14 Brigade Nigerian Army
Ohafia, Abia State
17 July 2026
