Operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS), in collaboration with troops of the Nigerian Army, have uncovered and raided suspected armouries linked to the outlawed Eastern Security Network (ESN) in Enugu State, recovering a large cache of arms and ammunition.
Security sources disclosed that the operation followed intelligence reports indicating plans by the group to launch attacks across parts of the South-East in an attempt to create panic and insecurity in the region.
According to the sources, the first operation was carried out around the Garki area of Enugu, where security operatives recovered a rocket launcher, two rocket-propelled grenade (RPG) warheads, three RPG chargers, three AK-47 rifles, six AK-47 magazines, two handheld grenades, a teargas gun, teargas canisters, and hundreds of rounds of ammunition.
Additional items recovered included 270 rounds of NATO 7.62x39mm ammunition, 478 rounds of 7.62x39mm special ammunition, a bandolier, and other tactical equipment.
In a follow-up operation on Wednesday, DSS operatives and soldiers reportedly raided another suspected ESN armoury along the Agbani axis of Enugu State. The operation led to the recovery of eight AK-47 rifles, one smoke grenade launcher, two teargas canisters, 12 AK-47 magazines, and 323 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition.
Security sources also revealed that ten NYSC trousers, eight NYSC T-shirts, and four NYSC lanyards were recovered during the operation.
The raids come days after the DSS arrested five suspected arms couriers, including two foreign nationals, allegedly linked to criminal activities in parts of northern Nigeria.
Authorities say investigations are ongoing, while efforts to track down other suspects connected to the recovered weapons continue.
