Troops of Sector 5, Joint Task Force South-East, Operation UDO KA, have recorded a major breakthrough in ongoing operations against members of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), in Anambra State.
Key Highlights:
The operation, carried out in collaboration with other security agencies, followed credible intelligence reports that armed suspects were allegedly disguising themselves in military camouflage and Nigeria Police uniforms to carry out attacks and other criminal activities.
According to the Nigerian Army, the joint security team swiftly mobilised and tracked the suspects along the Ogboji–Ajali axis in Orumba South Local Government Area of Anambra State on June 23, 2026.
The suspected operatives were intercepted while travelling in a white Toyota Sienna vehicle, leading to a fierce gun battle between the troops and the armed group. During the encounter, three ESN operatives were neutralised.
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After the engagement, troops conducted a detailed search and recovery operation in the area, during which they discovered and seized a cache of weapons and equipment allegedly belonging to the group.
Recovered items included PKM machine guns loaded with 53 rounds of ammunition, two AK-47 rifles, additional rounds of 7.62mm and 5.56mm ammunition, four improvised explosive devices (IEDs), communication gadgets, a laptop, and the vehicle used by the suspects.
Security forces also recovered identification and financial documents believed to be linked to suspected members of the group.
The Army stated that the operation demonstrates the effectiveness of intelligence-led joint security efforts aimed at disrupting criminal networks and preventing further attacks in the South-East.
It added that troops are currently conducting further operations in the area to track fleeing or wounded members of the group and ensure they are brought to justice.
The Nigerian Army reassured residents that it remains committed, alongside other security agencies, to protecting communities, restoring peace, and denying criminal elements the ability to operate freely.
Members of the public were also urged to continue providing useful information to security agencies, as cooperation and timely intelligence remain essential in sustaining security operations across the region.
