Troops Disrupt Illegal Mining Activity, Fire Warning Shots in Ebonyi
By: Zagazola Makama
Troops of Operation UDO KA have disrupted illegal mining activities during a night patrol in Ivo Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, leading to the arrest of four suspects.
Security sources said the incident occurred at about 7:30 p.m. on May 19 when troops deployed at Forward Operating Base Ivo intercepted individuals engaged in unauthorized mining activities within the general area.
The troops reportedly apprehended four suspects and recovered a mini truck, sapper cables, and a vehicle battery believed to have been used for the illegal operations.
However, tension reportedly rose while the suspects and recovered items were being conveyed to the base, as some youths from Iheteu community allegedly obstructed the troops and attempted to resist the operation by throwing stones in support of the suspects.
In response, the troops fired two warning shots into the air to disperse the crowd and restore order.
Security sources said calm was later restored and the situation brought under control without further escalation.
The suspects remain in custody for profiling and further investigation, while the recovered items have been secured for additional action.
Authorities said operations against illegal mining and other criminal activities would continue across affected communities in Ebonyi State.
