Odita Sunday 
Troops Bust Armed Network in Delta, Recover AK-47 Rifles, Arrest Suspects in Warri Operation
By Odita Sunday
Troops of the Nigerian Army under Operation DELTA SAFE have recorded another major operational success in Delta State, recovering multiple weapons and arresting suspected criminals during a swift intervention in Warri South West Local Government Area.
The development was disclosed in a statement issued by the Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, 63 Brigade, Iliyasu Bawa-Rijau, who confirmed that the operation was carried out by troops of Headquarters 63 Brigade/Sector 1, Joint Task Force, South South.
According to the statement, the operation was launched following reports of sporadic gunfire in Ogidigben Community, which triggered immediate security concerns among residents.
Acting on credible intelligence, troops swiftly mobilised to the area, where they conducted a targeted operation that led to the recovery of a cache of arms and other items believed to be used for criminal activities.
“The troops responded swiftly and confiscated four AK-47 rifles, six magazines, 106 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, two knives, ten machetes, and four rain boots,” the statement read.
The Army said the operation also led to the arrest of two suspected criminals believed to be linked to the recovered weapons.
“The suspects are currently in custody and undergoing further investigation,” Bawa-Rijau added.
Military sources indicated that the seizure of such weapons is part of ongoing efforts to dismantle criminal networks operating in the Niger Delta region, particularly those involved in armed violence and illegal activities.
Reacting to the development, the Commander 63 Brigade, Moronfolu Abdulmoshood Shonibare, commended the troops for their resilience and professionalism in executing the operation.
He urged them to sustain the current operational momentum in order to further degrade criminal elements within the area of responsibility.
“The Brigade remains committed to denying criminal elements freedom of action,” Shonibare said.
He also issued a stern warning to individuals and groups engaged in illegal activities or in possession of arms.
“Those harbouring weapons or engaging in criminal acts should reconsider, as efforts will be intensified to track them down,” he warned.
Security analysts say the latest operation highlights the importance of intelligence-driven military responses in tackling insecurity in the Niger Delta, where criminal groups often exploit difficult terrain to evade law enforcement.
The Nigerian Army reiterated its commitment to safeguarding communities and ensuring lasting peace across the region.
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