Troops of the Nigerian Army under Operation UDO KA have successfully dismantled a camp allegedly belonging to the Eastern Security Network (ESN) during a major raid in Ebubengwa/Abayi Nchokoro community, Ugwunagbo Local Government Area, Abia State.
According to a special situation report from the 144 Battalion (Rear), the operation commenced in the early hours of May 23, 2025, and was based on actionable intelligence. The offensive involved six platoons of 49 soldiers each, supported by an armoured personnel carrier (APC), a gun truck, and six Hilux vehicles.
During the raid, troops recovered a significant cache of weapons and logistics, including:
- 1 Rocket-Propelled Grenade (RPG)
- 1 General Purpose Machine Gun (GPMG)
- 4 AK-47 rifles
- 1 G3 rifle
- 3 Pump-action guns
- 800 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition
- 648 rounds of 7.62mm NATO rounds
Other items recovered from the camp included two generators, laptops, CCTV cameras, mobile phones, a Wi-Fi router, external hard drives, food supplies, ritual vests, and a large amount of cash totaling ₦11.75 million and $27,000.
The troops also discovered and destroyed a large shrine allegedly used for spiritual fortification. Several vehicles and motorcycles found at the camp were set ablaze, including:
- 1 Honda Pilot SUV
- 2 Toyota Highlander SUVs
- 1 Toyota Hiace bus
- 1 Mini bus
- 1 Tricycle
- 2 Motorcycles
In the ensuing firefight, the militants reportedly fled in disarray, leaving behind blood trails. While the exact number of enemy casualties remains unconfirmed, the Army recorded one soldier killed in action and two wounded—an officer and a soldier.
The body of the fallen soldier has been deposited at the Federal Medical Centre in Umuahia, while the injured are receiving treatment in Aba.
The military reported expending 630 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition and 235 rounds of 12.7mm rounds during the battle. The area has since been secured and is under continuous patrol to maintain dominance.
