Army neutralises suspected IPOB/ESN operatives, recovers arms in Anambra

By Imisioluwa Afunmiso

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

The operation, carried out on June 23, 2026, followed credible intelligence regarding armed criminals allegedly disguising themselves in military camouflage and Nigeria Police uniforms to carry out violent attacks.

The joint security team tracked the suspects along the Ogboji Ajali axis in the Orumba South Local Government Area, where they intercepted the operatives in a white Toyota Sienna vehicle. This led to a gun battle during which three suspected ESN operatives were neutralised.

Following the operation, security personnel recovered a cache of arms and other items, including PKM machine guns with 53 rounds of ammunition, two AK-47 rifles, an additional 7.62mm and 5.56mm round of ammunition, four improvised explosive devices (IEDs), communication gadgets, 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 Nigerian Army stated that the operation underscores ongoing, intelligence-led efforts to dismantle criminal and terrorist networks threatening peace and stability in the South-East.

Troops are reportedly continuing clearance operations in the area to track down fleeing members of the group.

The Army reaffirmed its commitment, alongside other security agencies, to maintaining security and urged residents to provide timely and credible information to aid ongoing operations.