Troops Dismantle IPOB/ESN Stronghold in Anambra, Destroy Camps, IEDs Facility
Troops conducting clearance operations under Operation Eastern Sanity have dismantled another major stronghold of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), during sustained offensives in parts of Anambra and Imo states.
The Nigerian Army disclosed that the operation forms part of ongoing efforts to restore lasting peace and security across the South-East region.
According to a statement on the operation, troops in collaboration with other security agencies, supported by close air support from the Nigerian Air Force, intensified clearance operations on March 3, 2026, at Camp Gbadoanya in Orsumoghu, Ihiala Loal Government Area of Anambra State.
The joint task force reportedly advanced into the camp to flush out remnants of IPOB/ESN fighters operating within the area and its surroundings.
During the operation, security forces identified and destroyed several insurgent camps after thoroughly exploiting the locations. A range of items linked to the separatist group were recovered from the site.
Recovered materials included pump-action guns, locally fabricated Dane guns, assorted rifle magazines, various rifle components, belts of ammunition, and cutting machines.
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Troops also recovered items believed to be used for propaganda and symbolic purposes by the group, including Biafran currencies, a Biafran flag, and a Biafran Army Headquarters flag. Military sources said the flags were destroyed while Nigerian flags were hoisted in the cleared camps to signify the restoration of state authority.
Other items found at the site included materials suspected to be used in the production of Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs), as well as musical instruments reportedly belonging to the so-called Biafran Army Band.
The military further disclosed that the offensive continued on March 4, 2026, when troops destroyed additional camps within the Gbadoanya axis.
During the follow-up operations, soldiers uncovered and dismantled an Improvised Explosive Device fabrication facility believed to have been used by the group to manufacture explosives.
Several items used in the fabrication of explosive devices were recovered from the site, including welding machines, drilling machines, filling machines, car batteries, and an electrode welding handle.
Troops also seized twelve locally fabricated firearms, rifle components, and other equipment associated with the production of improvised explosives.
The Nigerian Army said the sustained operations against IPOB/ESN elements will continue until all criminal enclaves within the operational area are neutralised and normalcy fully restored.
By PRNigeria
