The Nigerian Army has confirmed that troops from the 82 Division have destroyed a well-known camp linked to the banned Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN) in Imo State.
In a statement posted on its official X account, the Army said the operation was carried out on 24 April 2026 around the Ubaha Orsu area in Orsu Local Government Area after receiving reliable intelligence.
According to the military, the mission was part of a wider clearance effort aimed at removing IPOB/ESN strongholds in the region and also searching for the remains of two soldiers — Master Warrant Officer Linus Musa Audu and Private Gloria Mathew — who were kidnapped and killed in May 2022 while on their way to their traditional wedding ceremony.
The Army explained that when troops moved into the suspected hideout, they were met with heavy gunfire from armed militants. A fierce exchange followed, during which the soldiers repelled several attempted ambushes and forced the attackers to flee.
Officials said the confrontation further showed what they described as the violent activities of the group, which continues to target both civilians and security operatives.
After securing the area, troops carried out a detailed search of the camp. During the operation, they reportedly discovered shallow graves suspected to contain the remains of the murdered soldiers.
The Army stated that the graves were carefully opened and the suspected remains were recovered from the site.
It added that the remains have been taken for forensic examination, including DNA testing, to confirm their identities beyond doubt.
The military also said it is working with the families of the deceased personnel to properly identify the remains and arrange a respectful burial in honour of their service and sacrifice.
According to the statement, the operation demonstrates the Army’s continued efforts to bring justice to fallen personnel while also weakening IPOB/ESN structures across the South-East region.
It further noted that the discovery of graves inside the camp highlights the group’s violent actions and disregard for human life.
The Nigerian Army assured the public that operations will continue in the area until criminal groups are fully removed and peace is restored.
It also thanked residents for their support and encouraged them to keep providing useful and timely information to security agencies.