Troops of the 14 Brigade, Nigerian Army, have discovered two improvised explosive devices (IEDs) during clearance operations in Umuchinma Forest, Abia State, as part of ongoing efforts to curb the activities of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN).
In a statement issued on Sunday, the Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, 14 Brigade, Captain Mazinho Attah, said the discovery was made on February 8, 2026, at about 9:00 a.m., while troops were conducting clearance operations along the Umuchinma pipeline route leading into the forest.
“As part of intensified efforts to curb the criminal activities of IPOB, troops of 14 Brigade Nigerian Army have recorded a significant operational success during ongoing shaping operations ahead of Operation EASTERN SANITY,” the statement said.
Attah explained that the troops discovered two locally fabricated IEDs constructed with 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,” he added.
He noted that the operation followed credible intelligence provided by a suspect currently under investigation, who allegedly confessed to being a subject matter expert.
The Brigade Commander, Brigadier General A.M. Dikko, commended the troops for their conduct during the operation.
“The Brigade Commander expressed satisfaction with the professionalism, resilience and doggedness exhibited by the troops,” the statement said, adding that further exploitation of the Umuchinma Forest was ongoing.
According to the Army, “the general security situation within the Brigade’s Area of Responsibility remains calm but unpredictable,” with troops maintaining maximum vigilance.
“Troops’ morale and fighting efficiency remain high and satisfactory,” the statement added.
