Soldiers raid hideout in Rivers, seize weapons

The Nigerian Army has raided a suspected hideout for criminals in Rivers State. They recovered arms and ammunition during an operation led by troops from Sector 4, Joint Task Force South-East, Operation UDO KA.

This operation took place on July 23, 2026. It focused on a forest area at Awara Community Waterside in Ohaji/Egbema Local Government Area and along the Omoku, Ogbaku, Ndoni road in Rivers State.

The Army believes this hideout was being used by criminals to plan kidnappings and carry out attacks on security personnel and civilians.

In a statement posted on their X handle on Friday, the Army said this raid is part of their effort to break down criminal networks and restore peace in the region.

"Acting on credible intelligence, the troops raided the forest enclave believed to have been used by criminal elements as a staging base for planning kidnappings and launching attacks against security personnel and innocent citizens," the Army explained.

During the operation, troops found one Lee-Enfield MK I rifle, one G3 rifle, 116 rounds of 5.56mm ammunition, and 13 rounds of 7.62mm ammunition.

The Army stated that the operation is still ongoing. They are focused on clearing the area of any criminal activities.

“This latest recovery, the fourth successful seizure of illegal arms and ammunition by troops within the last two weeks, further demonstrates the effectiveness of intelligence-driven operations,” the statement added.

The military noted that their continued efforts have reduced the ability of criminal groups to operate freely. They also highlighted the need for cooperation between security agencies and the public.

“The Nigerian Army reiterates its unwavering commitment to sustaining aggressive and intelligence-led operations in collaboration with other security agencies until all criminal elements are denied safe havens and brought to justice,” it said.

The Army also encouraged residents to keep sharing timely and credible information to support ongoing security efforts across the South-East and the country.