Nigerian security forces have reportedly uncovered a significant cache of weapons and ammunition during a joint operation in Enugu State, in what authorities describe as a major breakthrough in efforts to combat armed violence and separatist-linked criminal activities in the South-East.
According to military sources, troops of the 82 Division Nigerian Army working alongside operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) conducted the raid on June 9, 2026, in the Gariki area of Enugu South Local Government Area.
The operation was reportedly carried out following intelligence obtained from suspects alleged to have links to the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).
Security personnel said the weapons were recovered from a structure reportedly disguised as a piggery. Items allegedly found at the location included machine guns, AK-47 rifles, a rocket-propelled grenade launcher, hand grenades, and hundreds of rounds of ammunition.
Authorities also confirmed the arrest of two suspects during the operation. Investigations are expected to continue as security agencies seek to determine the source of the weapons, possible supply networks, and any planned use of the recovered arms.
The operation forms part of the military’s ongoing Operation EASTERN SANITY II, a security campaign aimed at combating armed groups, criminal networks, and threats to public safety in the South-East region.
Military officials described the discovery as a significant achievement, arguing that the removal of such weapons from circulation could help prevent future attacks on civilians, security personnel, and public infrastructure.
However, as with previous security operations involving alleged IPOB links, the development has generated differing reactions. Supporters of the government’s security efforts view the seizure as evidence of the continued threat posed by armed groups operating in the region and the importance of intelligence-led operations.
On the other hand, IPOB has historically denied involvement in violent activities and often disputes allegations linking the organization to recovered weapons or attacks. The group’s supporters frequently call for independent verification of such claims.
Security analysts note that regardless of political debates, the recovery of military-grade weapons is a serious matter with implications for regional security and public safety.
Authorities have urged residents to continue providing credible information to security agencies, emphasizing that community cooperation remains essential in identifying criminal hideouts, disrupting arms trafficking networks, and preventing violent incidents.
The latest operation highlights the continuing security challenges facing Nigeria’s South-East, where authorities have intensified efforts to curb armed violence while balancing broader concerns about civil liberties, political grievances, and regional stability.
Investigations into the recovered weapons and the suspects remain ongoing.
