Military Arrests IPOB Female Logistics Supplier in Abia, Rescues 30 Hostages Nationwide
The Nigerian military has arrested a female logistics supplier linked to the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), during a security operation in Abia State.
The arrest came as troops across different theatres of operation recorded major successes in ongoing efforts to combat terrorism, banditry, and other forms of criminality nationwide within the past week.
The Director of Defence Media Operations, Maj.-Gen. Markus Kangye, disclosed this on Thursday in Abuja during the Defence Headquarters’ weekly media briefing.
He said the woman was found with three children later identified as the biological offspring of a wanted IPOB/ESN leader, Maduabuchi Nwankwo, popularly known as Emergency, who is also believed to be her relative.
According to Kangye, troops conducted several coordinated operations during the review period, leading to the arrest of 77 terrorists, the rescue of over 30 kidnapped victims, and the recovery of ₦5 million in ransom money from abductors.
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In the South-South, troops also foiled attempts to steal crude oil valued at ₦98 million, seizing 92,500 litres of stolen crude oil, 1,575 litres of diesel (AGO), 660 litres of kerosene (DPK), and 5,000 litres of petrol (PMS). They also destroyed 11 crude oil cooking ovens, seven dugout pits, nine boats, 14 storage tanks, and seven illegal refining sites.
The Defence spokesperson further revealed that troops recovered a cache of arms and ammunition, including automatic weapons, RPG tubes, machine guns, locally fabricated guns, IED-making materials, and live cartridges.
He noted that ground troops, working jointly with the Air Component, Hybrid forces, and local security groups, carried out aggressive operations in the North-East, dismantling terrorist networks, neutralizing several insurgents, and arresting their logistics suppliers and informants.
Kangye said similar operations in the North-West and North-Central regions led to the recovery of weapons, vehicles, livestock, and other items stolen by criminal gangs.
Commending the troops for their dedication and professionalism, the Force spokesman said the Armed Forces remain committed to safeguarding the nation and restoring lasting peace.
“These operational successes—whether in counter-terrorism, anti-banditry, or maritime security—are not just victories on the battlefield, but clear demonstrations of our collective resolve to secure every inch of Nigeria,” he stated.
Kangye paid tribute to personnel who have made sacrifices in the line of duty, assuring Nigerians that the military will sustain the tempo of operations until peace and stability are achieved nationwide.
By PRNigeria
