The Nigerian Army says troops of the 82 Division have dismantled a suspected camp belonging to the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), during an operation in Imo State.
According to a statement shared on the Army’s official X handle, the operation took place on 24 April 2026 along the Ubaha Orsu axis in Orsu Local Government Area following credible intelligence.
The mission was part of a broader clearance operation aimed at destroying the hideout and recovering the remains of two soldiers—Master Warrant Officer Linus Musa Audu and Private Gloria Mathew—who were abducted and killed in May 2022 while travelling for their traditional wedding.
The Army said troops encountered armed resistance during the raid but overpowered the attackers after a gun battle that led to the suspects fleeing the area.
After securing the camp, soldiers reportedly carried out a search operation that led to the discovery of shallow graves believed to contain the remains of the slain personnel.
The remains were recovered and secured for forensic analysis, including DNA testing, to confirm their identities.
The Army added that it is working with the families of the deceased soldiers to ensure proper identification and burial arrangements.
It described the operation as part of ongoing efforts to dismantle criminal networks in the South-East and assured that operations will continue until armed groups in the region are fully neutralised.
The military also urged residents to continue supporting security agencies with useful intelligence to aid ongoing operations.
