The Nigerian Army has recorded a dual breakthrough in Imo State, dismantling an IPOB/ESN camp and recovering suspected remains of abducted personnel during a high-risk clearance operation.
The operation, conducted by troops of 82 Division in collaboration with other security agencies, took place on April 24, 2026, along the Ubaha Orsu axis of Orsu Local Government Area, following actionable intelligence on the location of a notorious hideout linked to the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed affiliate, the Eastern Security Network (ESN).
The mission, according to military sources, formed part of ongoing clearance operations aimed at dismantling criminal enclaves across the South East and specifically targeted the recovery of the remains of two personnel, Master Warrant Officer Linus Musa Audu and Private Gloria Mathew, who were abducted and murdered in May 2022 while en route to their traditional wedding.
“Acting on credible intelligence, troops advanced on the suspected hideout but came under heavy attack from armed elements. Our personnel responded with superior firepower, repelling multiple ambushes and forcing the criminals to flee in disarray,” the Army stated.
The military described the encounter as a clear indication of the desperation of the group, noting that its members continue to target both security personnel and innocent civilians.
“The failed resistance by the terrorists underscores their weakened state and the sustained pressure being mounted on their networks across the region,” the statement added.
Following the successful clearance of the camp, troops conducted a detailed search of the area, leading to the discovery of shallow graves believed to contain the remains of the slain personnel.
“In the course of exploitation, troops made a grim but significant discovery of shallow graves within the camp. The graves were carefully excavated, and suspected human remains were recovered for further analysis,” the Army disclosed.
The recovered remains have since been secured for forensic examination, including DNA testing, to conclusively determine their identities.
“These efforts are crucial to providing closure for the families of the fallen heroes and ensuring that they receive dignified and befitting burials in honour of their sacrifice,” the statement noted.
The Army emphasized that the operation not only represents justice for fallen personnel but also highlights the continued degradation of IPOB/ESN operational capacity.
“The discovery of such graves within the camp further exposes the heinous atrocities and complete disregard for human life by these criminal elements,” it said.
Reaffirming its commitment to restoring peace and stability in the South East, the Nigerian Army assured that operations would continue until all threats are neutralised.
“We remain resolute, professional, and committed to defending the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Nigeria. Ongoing operations will persist until lasting peace is restored across the region,” the statement said.
The Army also called on residents to remain vigilant and support security agencies with timely and credible information.
“We urge law-abiding citizens to continue to cooperate with security forces. Public support remains critical in sustaining the gains recorded so far,” it added.
