Six suspects arrested as troops raid ‘ESN firearms factory’ in Delta

The Nigerian Army says its operatives have uncovered and neutralised a major firearms and drone manufacturing factory in the south-south. 

The army said the factory was operated by members of the proscribed Indigenous People Of Biafra (IPOB) and the Eastern Security Network (ESN), its militia arm, at Onicha Ulona, in Aniocha south LGA of Delta state.

In a statement on Tuesday, Onyema Nwachukwu, army director of public relations, said the intelligence-led operation revealed that the fighters were using the factory to carry out criminal activities, while terrorising neighbouring communities and innocent citizens.

Nwachukwu said the troops, upon swooping on the factory, met with stiff resistance, but overpowered the armed fighters during the gun duel that ensued.

He said the operatives neutralised two of the armed fighters and recovered a substantial number of arms and ammunition.

“Items captured by the troops include a wide range of IPOB/ESN firearms, ammunition, an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) and a drone manufacturing factory,” the statement reads.

“Other items recovered are a variety of weapons, drones under construction, with prototypes, Improvised Explosive Device materials, a fully equipped workshop, and several power generating sets.

“Troops also apprehended four male and two female fighters during the operation.

“The Nigerian Army assures the public of troops’ unalloyed commitment to dismantling terrorists’ and insurgents’ networks in their effort to mitigate security challenges in the nation.

“We urge the public to continue to support the Nigerian Army and other security agencies, as they strive to restore peace and stability in the country.”