Nigerian Army dismantles IPOB/ESN camps in Anambra, recovers IED materials

Nigerian Army troops, operating under Operation UDO KA, successfully dismantled strongholds of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its paramilitary wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), in Anambra State. The dawn offensive on Saturday targeted villages in the Ogbaru Local Government Area, specifically Obene and Abator within Ochuche and Umunankwo communities.

The joint operation, conducted in collaboration with the Maritime Component, Department of State Services, and the Anambra Vigilante Group, faced resistance. IPOB/ESN elements reportedly opened fire upon sighting the advancing troops, but fled into the surrounding terrain, abandoning their positions. The Army reported observing bloodstains along their withdrawal route, suggesting some fleeing members may have sustained injuries.

“

Troops responded with superior firepower and immediately pursued the fleeing elements.

During the pursuit, one suspected member was neutralized, while others escaped with the body of another deceased member. A thorough search of the abandoned strongholds yielded significant recoveries: two pump-action guns, two motorcycles, and crucial materials used for manufacturing improvised explosive devices (IEDs). The Army described this seizure as a major operational success, expected to significantly hinder the group's ability to produce explosives for attacks.

The Army has consolidated its positions and intensified operations in the wider area to apprehend fleeing members and prevent any regrouping efforts. This operation follows a similar dismantling of three suspected IPOB/ESN camps in another part of Anambra State just days prior, which also resulted in the recovery of firearms and explosives. The ongoing military campaign aims to deny these groups safe havens and degrade their operational capabilities, ultimately fostering a safer environment for residents in the region.

“

The Army described the seizure of the explosive-making materials as a “significant operational gain,” saying it would further degrade the group’s capacity to manufacture explosive devices for attacks against security forces, critical infrastructure and civilians.