Army Neutralises Criminals, Recovers Arms in Cross River

Troops of the Nigerian Army under the 13 Brigade operating from the 82 Division Nigerian Army have neutralised five suspected criminals and uncovered an illegal arms manufacturing facility in Odonget Community, Obubra Local Government Area of Cross River State.

The operation followed a recent ambush on troops who had responded to a distress call arising from a communal dispute in the area.

In a statement issued by Major Yemi Sokoya, Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, Headquarters 13 Brigade, the troops conducted an exploitation operation between March 12 and 13, 2026. The operation involved aggressive cordon-and-search missions and fighting patrols across identified locations to track down those responsible for the earlier attack on security personnel.

According to the statement, troops made contact with the armed suspects on March 13 within the general area. A firefight ensued during which five of the attackers were neutralised, while others fled with suspected gunshot wounds.

Further exploitation of the area led to the discovery of an illegal gun manufacturing factory believed to have been used by criminal elements to fabricate weapons used in violent activities within the locality.

During a search of the facility, troops recovered three AK-47 rifle magazines, ten locally fabricated firearms, and a toolbox containing weapon-manufacturing equipment.
The illegal arms production site was subsequently destroyed to prevent its continued use by criminal elements.

The Commander of 13 Brigade, Patrick Alimikhena, who personally led and supervised the operation, commended the troops for their gallantry and professionalism.

He reassured residents that the Brigade remains committed to maintaining peace and stability in the area, adding that troops would sustain aggressive operations, heightened surveillance, and continuous patrols to track down fleeing suspects and prevent further threats to law-abiding citizens.

Residents were also urged to continue supporting security agencies by providing timely and credible information that would aid ongoing efforts to rid the area of criminal elements.