Troops of Sector 5, Joint Task Force South-East Operation UDO KA, in collaboration with sister services and other security agencies, have neutralised three suspected operatives of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), during a joint operation in Anambra State.
According to military authorities, the operation was conducted on June 23, 2026, following credible intelligence on the activities of armed criminals allegedly disguising themselves in military camouflage and Nigeria Police uniforms to carry out violent attacks in the area.
The joint security team swiftly mobilised and tracked the suspects along the Ogboji–Ajali axis in Orumba South Local Government Area of the state, where they intercepted a white Toyota Sienna vehicle conveying the suspected operatives.
The interception resulted in a fierce exchange of gunfire, during which three ESN operatives were neutralised.
Following the operation, troops carried out a comprehensive exploitation of the area and recovered a cache of weapons and other items, including PKM machine guns with 53 rounds of ammunition, two AK-47 rifles, additional rounds of 7.62mm and 5.56mm ammunition, four improvised explosive devices (IEDs), communication equipment, a laptop and the vehicle used by the suspects.
Security operatives also recovered identification and financial documents believed to belong to members of the group.
The military said the operation underscores the effectiveness of ongoing intelligence-led and joint security operations aimed at dismantling criminal and terrorist networks threatening peace and stability across the South-East region.
Troops are currently conducting further exploitation of the general area to track down and apprehend fleeing or wounded members of the group.
The Nigerian Army reaffirmed its commitment, in collaboration with other security agencies, to denying criminal elements freedom of action and ensuring the safety of law-abiding citizens.
It also urged members of the public to continue providing timely and credible information to security agencies, noting that public cooperation remains critical to sustaining operational successes and enhancing national security.
