The Nigerian Army has announced the discovery of locally fabricated Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) during a clearance operation conducted by troops of the 14 Brigade, Ohafia, along the Umuchima pipeline route leading into a forest in Abia State.
The operation, carried out on February 8, 2026, led to the recovery of two locally made IEDs constructed using 5kg gas cylinders, nails, water-gel explosives, two detonators, and electrical cables.
The development was disclosed in a press statement issued by the Acting Assistant Director of Army Public Relations, 14 Brigade, Captain Mazinho Attah.
According to the Army, the operation formed part of intensified efforts to curb what it described as criminal activities linked to the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).
The statement explained that at about 9:00 a.m. on February 8, 2026, troops conducting clearance operations along the Umuchima pipeline route leading into the forest discovered the explosive devices.
Further exploitation of the area, the Army said, led to the recovery of four empty cartridge cases and two bags containing nails. Troops also successfully cleared a camp reportedly used by criminal elements operating within the forest.
“The success followed credible intelligence provided by a suspect currently under investigation, who earlier confessed to being a subject expert.
“The Brigade Commander, Brigadier General A.M. Dikko, expressed satisfaction with the professionalism, resilience, and doggedness exhibited by the troops.
“Further exploitation of the Umuchima Forest is ongoing,” the Nigerian Army said.
The Army added that while the general security situation within the Brigade’s Area of Responsibility remains calm, it is still unpredictable, noting that troops are maintaining maximum vigilance.
