Troops of the Nigerian Army have dismantled a suspected stronghold belonging to the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), during a clearance operation in Imo State.
The operation, carried out on April 24, 2026, along the Ubaha Orsu axis in Orsu Local Government Area, was conducted by soldiers of the 82 Division in collaboration with other security agencies.
According to a statement shared on the Nigerian Army’s Facebook page on Saturday, the operation formed part of ongoing efforts to dislodge armed groups operating in the South East and to locate the remains of two army personnel killed in 2022.
The personnel identified as Master Warrant Officer Linus Musa Audu and Private Gloria Mathew, were abducted and murdered while travelling for their traditional wedding in May 2025.
Acting on intelligence reports, troops advanced toward the suspected hideout but encountered heavy resistance from armed fighters. A gun battle ensued, during which the soldiers reportedly repelled multiple ambush attempts and forced the attackers to retreat.
Following the confrontation, troops secured the area and conducted a search of the camp.
During the sweep, they discovered shallow graves believed to contain the remains of the slain personnel. The graves were excavated, and the remains recovered for further examination.
The military said the remains have been secured for forensic analysis, including DNA testing, to confirm their identities.
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Efforts are also underway to contact the families of the deceased to support identification and arrange appropriate burial rites.
The Army described the operation as a significant step in ongoing efforts to weaken armed networks in the region. It said the discovery of graves within the camp highlights what it called the “violent activities” of the group.
It was gathered that security operations are expected to continue across the South East as part of a broader campaign to restore stability.
The Army also called on residents to remain vigilant and continue providing information to security agencies.
The military reiterated its commitment to maintaining national security and ensuring accountability for attacks on both civilians and military personnel.
