By Nkechi Eze
Troops of the Nigerian Army have intensified offensive operations against suspected militants linked to the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), overrunning their strongholds in parts of the South-East and recovering explosives as well as ransom proceeds believed to be connected to kidnapping activities.
The operations, conducted under Operation Eastern Sanity, targeted insurgent enclaves across the region as troops sustained pressure on the group with coordinated ground assaults, intelligence-driven missions and air support.
Military sources said that on April 14, 2026, joint troops of Sector 1, supported by the Air Component of Operation UDO KA, carried out a precision strike and clearance operation in Ajali Forest located in Ezeagu Local Government Area.
During the operation, IPOB/ESN fighters were reportedly forced into a chaotic retreat as troops advanced on their positions. In the process, the fleeing elements abandoned several items, including an anti-tank Improvised Explosive Device (IED), believed to have been intended for use against security forces.
The explosive device was subsequently secured by an Explosive Ordnance Disposal team, preventing potential casualties among troops and civilians in the area.
Following the raid, troops established firm control of the forest and surrounding communities, launching sustained clearance operations aimed at dismantling terrorist infrastructure and preventing the criminals from regrouping. Security sources disclosed that several hideouts used by the militants were destroyed with the aid of chainsaws and bulldozers, leaving the group without cover and forcing its members to disperse.
In a related development on the same day, troops of the 82 Division Nigerian Army Garrison stationed at Adani in Uzo-Uwani Local Government Area carried out an intelligence-led operation that led to the interception of ransom proceeds linked to a kidnapping syndicate.
The operation followed credible intelligence provided by the Department of State Services (DSS), which enabled troops to track down a suspected kidnapper believed to be connected to the criminal network.
During the raid on the suspect’s residence, troops recovered a pump-action rifle and the sum of Two Million Naira (₦2,000,000), believed to be ransom funds collected from victims of kidnapping.
The suspect and the recovered items have since been handed over to the relevant authorities for further investigation aimed at identifying and apprehending other members of the criminal gang.
Military authorities said the combined operations have further degraded the operational and financial capacity of IPOB/ESN elements in the region, noting that the sustained pressure from security forces has continued to weaken the group’s structure and limit its ability to launch coordinated attacks.
The Nigerian Army reaffirmed its commitment to intensifying operations against insurgent and criminal elements across the South-East, assuring residents that troops would remain resolute in protecting lives and property while denying violent groups any safe haven in the region.
