Troops Overpower IPOB Fighters, Recover Arms, Ransom Funds
Troops of the Nigerian Army have overpowered suspected IPOB/ESN fighters recovered an explosive device, weapons, and ransom proceeds linked to kidnapping activities in Enugu State.
The operation, conducted under Operation Eastern Sanity, targeted criminal hideouts in Ajali Forest, Ezeagu Local Government Area.
In a statement on Tuesday, the Army said troops, supported by the Air Component of Operation Udo Ka, carried out a clearance operation that forced the fighters to flee, abandoning key assets.
It said an anti-tank improvised explosive device was recovered at the scene and safely secured by an Explosive Ordnance Disposal team.
“The offensive forced IPOB/ESN elements into a chaotic retreat, abandoning critical assets, including an anti-tank IED,” the statement said.
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The Army added that troops have established control of the area and commenced sustained clearance operations to dismantle remaining hideouts.
In a related operation, troops of 82 Division Garrison, acting on intelligence from the Department of State Services, arrested a suspected kidnapper in Uzo-Uwani Local Government Area.
According to the statement, the suspect was linked to a kidnapping syndicate, and a search of his residence led to the recovery of a pump-action rifle and N2m believed to be ransom proceeds.
“The operation further degraded the group’s operational and financial capacity,” the Army said.
It added that the suspect and recovered items had been handed over to relevant authorities for further investigation.
The military said the sustained offensive had continued to weaken IPOB/ESN elements, limiting their ability to regroup or launch attacks.
It reiterated its commitment to ongoing operations aimed at restoring peace and stability in the South-East.
By PRNigeria
