Army Eliminates 3 IPOB/ESN Militants, Recovers Arms, IEDs in Anambra
The Nigerian Army has recorded a major operational success against members of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), following a joint security operation in Anambra State that led to the neutralisation of three suspected operatives and the recovery of a cache of arms and explosives.
According to the Army, troops of Sector 5, Joint Task Force South-East Operation UDO KA, working in collaboration with sister services and other security agencies, carried out the operation on June 23, 2026, along the Ogboji–Ajali axis in Orumba South Local Government Area of the state.
The operation was launched following credible intelligence reports indicating that armed criminals disguised in military camouflage and Nigeria Police uniforms were planning and executing violent attacks in the area.
Acting swiftly on the intelligence, the joint security team tracked the suspects and intercepted them while travelling in a white Toyota Sienna vehicle. The encounter resulted in a fierce exchange of gunfire during which three ESN operatives were neutralised.
Read Also:
Following the operation, troops conducted an extensive search of the area and recovered a significant cache of weapons and other items. The recovered exhibits included PKM machine guns with 53 rounds of ammunition, two AK-47 rifles, additional rounds of 7.62mm and 5.56mm ammunition, four improvised explosive devices (IEDs), communication equipment, a laptop, and the vehicle allegedly used by the suspects.
Security forces also recovered identification and financial documents believed to belong to members of the group.
The Nigerian Army said the successful operation underscores the effectiveness of ongoing intelligence-driven and joint security efforts aimed at dismantling criminal and terrorist networks threatening peace and stability across the South-East region.
It added that troops are continuing exploitation operations in the area to track down and apprehend fleeing and wounded members of the group.
Reaffirming its commitment to protecting lives and property, the Army assured residents that it would continue working closely with other security agencies to deny criminal elements freedom of action and maintain a secure environment for law-abiding citizens.
The Army also urged members of the public to support ongoing security operations by providing timely and credible information, stressing that collective vigilance remains vital to sustaining operational successes and enhancing national security.
By PRNigeria
