Nigerian Army Raids Militant Camp in Abia State, One Soldier Killed, Weapons and Cash Recovered

Troops of the Nigerian Army, under Operation UDO KA, have successfully conducted a coordinated raid on a suspected Eastern Security Network (ESN) camp in Ugwunagbo Local Government Area of Abia State. The operation, which took place in the early hours of May 23, followed credible intelligence indicating the presence of a militant stronghold in the Ebubengwa/Abayi Nchokoro community.

According to a special situation report from the 144 Battalion (Rear), the raid involved six platoons of 49 soldiers each, led by the unit commander. The troops were supported by an armoured personnel carrier (APC), a gun truck, and six Hilux vehicles.

During the operation, the camp was completely dislodged and dismantled. A cache of arms and logistical materials was recovered, including:

• 1 Rocket-Propelled Grenade (RPG)
• 1 General Purpose Machine Gun (GPMG)
• 4 AK-47 rifles
• 1 G3 rifle
• 3 Pump-action shotguns
• 800 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition
• 648 rounds of 7.62mm NATO ammunition

Additional items recovered included two generators, laptops, CCTV equipment, mobile phones, a Wi-Fi router, external hard drives, food supplies, ritual garments, and cash totaling ₦11.75 million and \$27,000.

Troops also discovered and destroyed a large shrine believed to be used for spiritual rituals. Several vehicles and motorcycles were seized and destroyed, including:

• 1 Honda Pilot SUV
• 2 Toyota Highlander SUVs
• 1 Toyota Hiace bus
• 1 mini bus
• 1 tricycle
• 2 motorcycles

The Nigerian Army reported that the militants fled the scene under heavy fire, leaving behind blood trails. While the number of enemy casualties remains unconfirmed, the Army sustained one fatality and two injuries—one officer and one soldier. The deceased was transported to the Federal Medical Centre in Umuahia, while the wounded personnel are receiving medical care in Aba and are reported to be in stable condition.

The troops expended 630 rounds of 7.62mm special and 235 rounds of 12.7mm ammunition during the firefight. The area has since been secured, with patrols ongoing to maintain control and deter further threats.