Troops of Sector 5, Joint Task Force South-East Operation UDO KA, working alongside other security agencies, have neutralised three suspected operatives of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network, during a joint operation in Anambra State.
The Nigerian Army said the operation was carried out on June 23, 2026, following credible intelligence indicating that armed criminals disguised in military camouflage and Nigeria Police uniforms were planning attacks in parts of the state.
According to the Army, the joint security team swiftly mobilised and tracked the suspects along the Ogboji–Ajali axis in Orumba South Local Government Area. The suspects, who were reportedly travelling in a white Toyota Sienna vehicle, were intercepted, leading to a fierce gun battle.
In a statement, the Army disclosed that three suspected ESN operatives were neutralised during the exchange of fire, while other members of the group fled the scene.
Following the operation, troops conducted a comprehensive search of the area and recovered a significant cache of weapons and explosives. Items recovered included PKM machine guns with 53 rounds of ammunition, two AK-47 rifles, additional rounds of 7.62mm and 5.56mm ammunition, four improvised explosive devices (IEDs), communication gadgets, a laptop and the vehicle allegedly used by the suspects.
Security operatives also recovered identification and financial documents believed to belong to members of the group, a development that investigators say could provide valuable intelligence for ongoing operations.
The Army described the operation as another major success in ongoing intelligence-driven efforts aimed at dismantling criminal and terrorist networks threatening peace and stability across the South-East region.
“The operation highlights the effectiveness of ongoing intelligence-driven and joint security efforts aimed at dismantling criminal and terrorist networks threatening peace and stability in the South-East,” the statement said.
Military authorities added that troops are continuing exploitation operations in the area to track down and apprehend fleeing and wounded suspects linked to the group.
Reaffirming its commitment to regional security, the Nigerian Army said it would continue working with sister security agencies to deny criminal elements freedom of action and ensure a safe environment for law-abiding citizens.
“The Nigerian Army reassures citizens of its unwavering commitment, alongside other security agencies, to deny criminal elements freedom of action and ensure a secure environment for law-abiding residents,” the statement added.
