Troops of Sector 5 of the Joint Task Force South-East, Operation UDO KA, have neutralised three operatives of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), during a joint operation in Anambra State.
The Nigerian Army disclosed that the operation, conducted in collaboration with sister services and other security agencies, followed credible intelligence on armed criminals allegedly disguising themselves in military camouflage and Nigeria Police uniforms to carry out violent attacks in the state.
According to the Army, the suspects were tracked along the Ogboji–Ajali axis in Orumba South Local Government Area on June 23, 2026. The joint security team intercepted the suspects while they were travelling in a white Toyota Sienna vehicle, leading to a fierce gun battle.
Three ESN operatives were neutralised during the exchange of fire, while others reportedly fled the scene with possible gunshot wounds.
Following the operation, troops conducted a thorough search of the area and recovered a cache of weapons and other items, including 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 devices, 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 Army said the successful operation underscored the effectiveness of ongoing intelligence-led and joint security efforts aimed at dismantling criminal and terrorist networks threatening peace and stability in the South-East.
It added that troops are continuing exploitation operations in the area to track down and apprehend fleeing members of the group.
Reaffirming its commitment to safeguarding lives and property, the Nigerian Army urged residents to continue supporting security agencies with timely and credible information to sustain operational successes and enhance security across the region.