The Joint Task Force South-East, “Operation UDO KA,” has intensified its operations to restore peace and security in the region, neutralizing 13 armed members of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and arresting three suspected kidnappers.
The feat, aimed at ensuring a safe and peaceful Yuletide, was disclosed on Monday in Enugu by the task force’s spokesman, Lt. Col. Jonah Unuakhalu.
In one of the key operations on December 21, troops of Sector 1 conducted an ambush along the Amouka-Umouka Road in the 9th Mile area of Udi Local Government, Enugu State.
The encounter led to the neutralization of a kidnapper, while others fled with gunshot wounds. The troops recovered an AK-47 rifle, ammunition, cell phones, and a sum of N8,900 at the scene.
Similarly, on December 16, troops of Sector 5 carried out a clearance operation within the Mbosi and Isseke areas in Ihiala Local Government Area of Anambra State.
During this mission, three IPOB members were neutralized. The soldiers seized weapons, including AK-47 rifles and Dane guns, and destroyed a house and a shrine used by the group for fortification.
Earlier patrols within the Ihiala-Orlu axis resulted in the discovery of five improvised explosive devices (IEDs), which were safely recovered.
Another significant success was recorded on December 14, when troops acted on credible intelligence to apprehend three suspected kidnappers at Itungwa in the Obingwa Local Government Area of Abia State.
The suspects, operating in a stolen tricycle, attempted to flee upon sighting the soldiers but were swiftly apprehended. The operation led to the recovery of weapons, including AK-47 and G3 rifles, along with ammunition concealed in knapsacks.
Maj. Gen. Hassan Dada, the Force Commander of Operation UDO KA, commended the troops’ efforts and called on citizens to actively support security operations by providing timely and credible information.
He emphasized that security is a shared responsibility and urged residents to report suspicious activities using the task force’s toll-free line, 193, and pressing Option 2 for direct communication with the headquarters.
Operation UDO KA remains committed to ensuring the safety and stability of the South-East as part of its broader mission to combat criminal elements in the region.