
The Nigerian Army declared that forces from the 82 Division have dismantled a notorious camp linked to the banned Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and the Eastern Security Network (ESN) in Imo State.
In a notice disseminated via its official X account, the Army noted that the troops acted on reliable intelligence to execute the operations on 24 April 2026 along the Ubaha Orsu corridor of Orsu Local Government Area.
This operation was part of a tactical clearance and search initiative aimed at dismantling the IPOB/ESN hideout in the vicinity and locating the remains of two Nigerian Army personnel, Master Warrant Officer Linus Musa Audu and Private Gloria Mathew, who were brutally kidnapped and killed by terrorists in May 2022 while en route to their customary wedding.
Upon receiving trustworthy intelligence, the army indicated that its troops progressed towards a suspected IPOB/ESN hideout, where they faced intense gunfire from armed assailants.
The statement indicated that the troops confronted the terrorists decisively, successfully repelling multiple ambushes and compelling the criminals to retreat in disarray.
“The encounter further highlighted the desperation and criminal nature of the group, which continues to target innocent civilians and security personnel alike,” the statement noted.
After effectively securing the camp, the Nigerian Army reported that the troops performed a thorough search of the vicinity, leading to the unearthing of shallow graves believed to contain the remains of the fallen personnel.
“The graves were meticulously excavated, and the suspected remains were retrieved,” the statement specified.
The Nigerian Army affirmed that the recovered remains have been secured for comprehensive forensic analysis, including DNA testing, to conclusively determine their identities.
“Efforts are also underway to coordinate with the families of the deceased personnel to ensure proper identification and arrange suitable burial ceremonies in honor of their sacrifice.
“This operation not only reinforces the Nigerian Army’s unwavering dedication to achieving justice for fallen heroes but also underscores the ongoing dismantling of IPOB/ESN criminal networks and infrastructure throughout the South East.
“The discovery of shallow graves within their camp further reveals the group’s monstrous atrocities and disregard for human life.”
The Nigerian Army reassured the public that ongoing operations will persist until all criminal elements are neutralized and lasting peace is reestablished across the region.
“We appreciate the law-abiding citizens for their intelligence and urge you to remain vigilant and continue supporting security agencies with prompt and credible information,” it added.








