Nigerian army uncovers separatist firearms factory in Delta State

By Ibrahim Garba Shuaibu

KANO, Nigeria (AA) - Nigerian army troops uncovered and neutralized a firearms factory operated by armed fighters from the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and the Eastern Security Network (ESN) in Onicha Ulona, Aniocha South Local Government Area of Delta State, according to a statement.

"The intelligence-led operation revealed that the dissidents were using the factory to carry out criminal activities to terrorize neighbouring communities and innocent citizens. Upon swooping on the illegal factory, the troops were met with stiff resistance but overpowered the armed fighters in the fierce firefight that followed. The gallant troops neutralized two of the fighters and recovered a substantial cache of arms and ammunition,” according to the statement by Director of Army on Public Relations Onuema Nwachukwu, made available to Anadolu.

It said troops also apprehended four male and two female fighters during the operation.

Items captured include a wide range of firearms, ammunition, an improvised explosive device and a drone manufacturing factory, drones under construction, with prototypes, improvised explosive device materials, a fully equipped workshop and several power-generating sets.

The army assured the public of the troops' commitment to dismantling terror and insurgent networks in their effort to mitigate security challenges in Nigeria.

The army also urged the public to continue to support the army and security agencies, as they strive to restore peace and stability.