In a recent operation in Anambra State, Nigerian soldiers stopped a truck carrying over 164,000 bullets (live cartridges) that were reportedly meant for a banned group called IPOB and its armed wing, ESN. This happened on May 29, 2025, along the busy Asaba–Onitsha Expressway. Here’s what happened:
The Intelligence Tip-Off
Soldiers working under Operation UDO KA Sector 5, in partnership with the 63 Brigade and DSS (Department of State Services), acted on a credible tip—someone told them that illegal ammunition was being moved in a truck. Acting quickly, they stopped the truck and arrested a man named Mr. Emeka Omenife.
What Was Found
At first glance, the truck looked like a regular cargo truck. But after bringing it to the Onitsha Army Barracks (Cantonment) and checking thoroughly, the soldiers found 164,650 bullets hidden in four secret compartments inside the truck bed. That’s enough bullets to supply an army!
Where Were the Bullets Coming From?
Investigators say the bullets were smuggled in from Ghana, a neighboring country. Their final destination? Onitsha, a major city in Anambra State.
Who’s Behind This?
During interrogation by DSS officers, Omenife confessed that he was part of a larger group smuggling weapons for IPOB/ESN. Based on his confession, security agents arrested another man, Mr. Uchenna Obiora, at the Onitsha–Awka tollgate on May 30, 2025, while he was waiting to receive the shipment.
This Wasn’t His First Time
Here’s something shocking: Omenife was arrested earlier this year on January 22, 2025. During that arrest, he tried to run away and was shot in the buttocks before being taken to an army hospital for treatment. He was later handed over to the Anambra State Police for prosecution.
But for unknown reasons, he was released and is now caught again doing the same thing. This raises serious questions about what happened after his first arrest and how he was let go.
What Happens Next?
Security officials say investigations are still ongoing. They are trying to track down other members of the smuggling group and find out how deep the network goes.
Who are IPOB and ESN?
- IPOB (Indigenous People of Biafra) is a group fighting for an independent country for the Igbo people, separate from Nigeria.
- ESN (Eastern Security Network) is their armed group. The Nigerian government has banned both groups, calling them threats to national security.
This story shows how security forces are working to stop illegal weapons from reaching dangerous groups. It also highlights the need for better justice systems—because if people like Omenife are arrested and released without proper punishment, they might keep putting others in danger.
