Army Troops Neutralise Three IPOB/ESN Operatives, Recover Arms, IEDs in Anambra

Troops of the Nigerian Army’s Sector 5, Joint Task Force South-East, Operation UDO KA, in collaboration with sister services and other security agencies, have neutralised three operatives of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), during an operation in Anambra State.

The operation, which took place on 23 June 2026, followed credible intelligence on the activities of armed criminals allegedly disguising themselves in military camouflage and Nigeria Police uniforms to carry out attacks in the South-East.

A statement by the Nigerian Army said the joint security team swiftly mobilised and intercepted the suspects along the Ogboji–Ajali axis in Orumba South Local Government Area of the state.

The suspects, who were reportedly travelling in a white Toyota Sienna vehicle, engaged troops in a fierce gun battle during which three ESN operatives were neutralised.

Following the encounter, troops conducted an extensive search of the area and recovered a cache of weapons and other items believed to belong to the criminal group.

Items recovered included PKM machine guns with 53 rounds of ammunition, two AK-47 rifles, additional 7.62mm and 5.56mm ammunition, four improvised explosive devices (IEDs), communication gadgets, a laptop and the vehicle used by the suspects.

The troops also recovered identification and financial documents linked to suspected members of the group, as security forces continued efforts to track and apprehend other fleeing or wounded operatives.

The Army described the operation as another major achievement in the ongoing intelligence-led and coordinated security efforts aimed at dismantling criminal networks threatening peace and stability in the South-East.

It reaffirmed its commitment to working with other security agencies to deny criminal elements freedom of action and create a safer environment for residents.

The military also urged members of the public to continue providing timely and credible information to security agencies, noting that community cooperation remains vital to sustaining security gains and protecting national security.