Army foils deadly IED plot in Abia forest, recovers explosives

By Steve Oko

The Nigerian Army said it had foiled a suspected deadly bomb attack after uncovering and neutralising multiple Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) in Umuchima Forest, Isiala Ngwa North Local Government Area of Abia State.

The operation, carried out in the early hours of Friday, April 3, 2026, followed actionable intelligence from the brigade intelligence unit, prompting a swift and targeted military response.

In a statement, Captain Muyiwa Ayara, speaking for the Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, 14 Brigade, Ohafia, said troops of the 145 Battalion (Rear) launched a deliberate clearance and fighting patrol into the forest based on detailed intelligence analysis.

During the operation, four IEDs were discovered at strategic locations within the forest, allegedly planted to restrict troop movement and shield suspected insurgent hideouts.

“The explosives were part of a coordinated attempt to deny troops freedom of action and protect criminal enclaves within the area,” the statement said.

Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) teams from the 14th Brigade were immediately deployed to the scene. The devices were safely detonated in situ, while critical components were recovered for further forensic and technical analysis.

Military authorities say the recovered materials will support ongoing intelligence efforts and provide insight into the tactics and operational methods of the suspected insurgent group.

Meanwhile, troops have intensified clearance operations across the area, targeting residual threats, dismantling logistics networks, and degrading the operational capacity of IPOB/ESN believed to be active in the forest and adjoining communities.

The army reassured residents of sustained security presence, urging the public to remain vigilant and provide credible information to security agencies.

The latest success, according to the military, highlighta sustaineds the growing impact of intelligence-driven operations in countering insurgency and restoring stability in the South-East.