The Nigerian Army has recorded a major breakthrough in its ongoing security operations in the South East, dismantling a suspected stronghold of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), in Imo State.
The operation, carried out on April 24, 2026, along the Ubaha Orsu axis in Orsu Local Government Area, was executed by troops of the 82 Division in collaboration with other security agencies. It formed part of a coordinated clearance mission targeting criminal hideouts in the region.
According to military sources, the troops acted on credible intelligence pointing to the location of the camp, which was believed to be a base for IPOB/ESN activities. During the advance, security forces reportedly came under heavy fire from armed elements but responded swiftly, repelling multiple ambush attempts and forcing the attackers to retreat.
Following the successful raid, troops conducted a detailed search of the area, leading to the discovery of shallow graves suspected to contain the remains of two soldiers — Master Warrant Officer Linus Musa Audu and Private Gloria Mathew. The personnel were abducted and killed in May 2022 while travelling for their traditional wedding.
The remains recovered from the site have been secured and are expected to undergo forensic examination, including DNA analysis, to confirm their identities. Authorities say efforts are also underway to engage the families of the deceased for proper identification and to facilitate dignified burial arrangements.
Security officials described the discovery as both tragic and significant, noting that it sheds more light on the activities within the camp and the broader operations of armed groups in the region.
The Nigerian Army reiterated its commitment to ongoing operations aimed at dismantling criminal networks and restoring stability across the South East. Residents have also been urged to remain vigilant and continue supporting security agencies with timely and credible information.