Troops of Sector 1 of Operation UDO KA, working alongside other security agencies, have foiled an attack by suspected members of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), during an intelligence-led patrol in Imezi Owa community, Ezeagu Local Government Area of Enugu State.
According to the Nigerian Army, the operation took place on May 6, 2026, following intelligence reports and ongoing efforts to track suspected terrorist collaborators operating within the community.
This was disclosed in a statement signed by the Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations, 82 Division Nigerian Army, Lt. Olabisi Olalekan Ayeni, on Friday night.
The military revealed that troops advancing on foot into the area came under heavy attack from gunmen firing from a building believed to have been used as a hideout by the suspected militants.
During the encounter, three soldiers sustained injuries.
Despite the attack, security forces reportedly maintained control of the situation, repelled the assailants and secured the area.
The injured soldiers were immediately evacuated to a military medical facility, where they are currently receiving treatment.
It was gathered that in the course of the gun battle, Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) allegedly stored inside the building detonated, sparking a fire that destroyed the structure.
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A subsequent search of the surrounding area led to the recovery of additional IEDs, improvised hand grenades and a shrine reportedly used for ritual activities.
The shrine was later destroyed by troops to prevent its continued use for criminal purposes, the military said.
Security operatives also arrested one suspected collaborator during follow-up operations in the area.
The suspect, along with recovered items, has been handed over to the Nigerian Police at the Ezeagu Division for further investigation.
The military reassured residents of Imezi Owa and neighbouring communities of its commitment to safeguarding lives and property, urging citizens to remain calm and cooperate with security agencies by providing useful information and avoiding association with criminal elements.
Headquarters Joint Task Force South East, Operation UDO KA, also warned members and sympathisers of the proscribed IPOB/ESN groups to desist from unlawful activities or face the consequences of their actions.
