The Nigerian Army said troops from the 82 Division have
dismantled a notorious camp associated with the proscribed Indigenous People of
Biafra (IPOB) and the Eastern Security Network (ESN) in Imo State.
In a statement shared on its official X handle, the Army
said the troops acted on credible intelligence to carry out the operations on
24 April 2026 along the Ubaha Orsu axis of Orsu Local Government Area.
The operation was part of a strategic clearance and search
mission aimed at dismantling the IPOB/ESN hideout in the region and locating
the remains of two Nigerian Army personnel, Master Warrant Officer Linus Musa
Audu and Private Gloria Mathew, who were brutally abducted and murdered by
terrorists in May 2022 while on their way to their traditional wedding.
Upon receiving credible intelligence, the army reported that
its troops advanced towards a suspected IPOB/ESN hideout, where they
encountered heavy fire from armed criminals.
The statement said the troops engaged the terrorists
decisively, successfully repelling multiple ambushes and forcing the criminals
to retreat in chaos.
“The encounter further revealed the desperation and criminal
nature of the group, which continues to target innocent citizens and security
personnel alike,” the statement said.
After successfully clearing the camp, the Nigerian Army said
the troops conducted a comprehensive search of the area, leading to the
discovery of shallow graves believed to contain the remains of the slain
personnel.
“The graves were carefully excavated, and the suspected
remains were recovered,” the statement said.
The Nigerian Army confirmed that the recovered remains have
been secured for detailed forensic analysis, including DNA testing, to
definitively establish their identities.
“Efforts are also ongoing to liaise with the families of the
fallen personnel to ensure proper identification and facilitate befitting
burial arrangements in honour of their sacrifice.
“This operation not only underscores the Nigerian Army’s
unwavering commitment to ensuring justice for fallen heroes but also highlights
the continued degradation of IPOB/ESN criminal networks and infrastructure
across the South East.
“The discovery of shallow graves within their camp further
exposes the group’s heinous atrocities and disregard for human life.”
The Nigerian Army reassured the general public that ongoing
operations will continue until all criminal elements are neutralised and
lasting peace is restored across the region.
“We appreciate the law-abiding citizens for the information
and urge you remain vigilant and continue to support security agencies with
timely and credible information,” it added.
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