Military Finds Homemade Explosive Devices During Security Sweep in Abia Forest

Troops from the Nigerian Army’s 14 Brigade based in Ohafia have uncovered dangerous homemade explosive devices during a patrol in a forested area of Umuchinma, located in Isiala Ngwa North, Abia State. The discovery was made on Sunday as soldiers carried out a security clearing operation along a pipeline corridor that leads into dense woodland.

According to the brigade’s public relations office, the improvised devices were assembled using 5kg gas cylinders filled with explosive materials, nails, electric cables, detonators, and other components. The troops also retrieved four spent cartridge shells and bags of loose nails while searching what is believed to be a hideout used by criminal elements.

The operation followed intelligence provided by a suspect now under investigation, who reportedly admitted to knowledge of the explosive devices. Brigade Commander Brigadier General A.M. Dikko praised the professionalism and alertness of the personnel, describing the find as a significant setback for those planning attacks in the region.

Security forces say they are continuing thorough sweeps of the forest to ensure no other threats remain, even as the immediate area remains calm.