Troops of the Nigerian Army have dismantled a suspected stronghold of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), in Imo State, in an operation that also led to the recovery of suspected remains believed to be those of two soldiers killed in 2022.
The operation, carried out by troops of the 82 Division in collaboration with other security agencies, took place on April 24, 2026, along the Ubaha-Orsu axis in Orsu Local Government Area of the state.
According to the Army, the mission was part of a targeted clearance operation aimed at dislodging IPOB/ESN elements and locating the remains of Master Warrant Officer Linus Musa Audu and Private Gloria Mathew, who were abducted and killed in 2022.
The two personnel were reportedly attacked in May 2022 while travelling through the South-East en route to their traditional wedding, an incident that drew widespread outrage at the time. Their killing was one of several high-profile attacks linked to armed groups in the region, particularly along the Orsu axis, which has long been identified as a flashpoint of violence.
Providing details of the latest operation, the Army said troops advanced on a suspected hideout following credible intelligence but came under heavy attack from armed fighters.
“Troops decisively engaged the terrorists, successfully repelling multiple ambushes and forcing the criminals to flee in disarray,” the statement said, adding that the encounter reflected the “desperation and criminal nature of the group.”
After overrunning the camp, troops conducted a sweep of the area and uncovered shallow graves suspected to contain the remains of the slain soldiers.
Describing the discovery as “grim but important,” the Army said the graves were carefully excavated and the suspected remains recovered.
The remains have since been secured for forensic examination, including DNA testing, to confirm their identities. The Army also said it is working with the families of the deceased to ensure proper identification and arrange “befitting burial” for the fallen personnel.
Military authorities said the operation underscores ongoing efforts to degrade armed groups operating in the South-East and bring closure to unresolved cases involving attacks on security personnel.
The Army reaffirmed its commitment to continuing operations in the region, noting that efforts would persist “until all criminal elements are neutralised and lasting peace is restored.”