Troops clear IEDs, destroy terror camp in Imo

Troops of Sector 4 under Operation UDO KA have cleared several improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and dismantled a suspected terrorist camp during an offensive operation in Orsu Local Government Area of Imo State.

Security sources said the operation, carried out on March 11, targeted the Orsu-Ihiteukwa axis where members of the Indigenous People of Biafra and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (IPOB/ESN), had allegedly planted explosives along key routes.

During the operation, troops engaged the suspected militants in a gun battle, forcing them to abandon their positions and flee into nearby bushes. The soldiers subsequently discovered and safely detonated several IEDs planted along the route.

The troops also uncovered and destroyed a facility believed to be used for terrorist activities. Items recovered at the site included 32 newly fabricated pipes, several wires and clips used for making explosives, a double-barrel gun, a pistol magazine loaded with one 9mm round, three rounds of 7.62mm NATO ammunition, two CCTV cameras, and a Biafra flag.

In a separate incident on the same day, troops of the 143 Battalion responded to a distress call at about 9:41 p.m. over suspected criminal activity along the Okigwe–Ihube Road in Okigwe Local Government Area.

According to the sources, the troops rescued two civilians during the operation, while another individual was reportedly abducted by the attackers before security forces arrived.

The rescued victims were evacuated to a medical facility for treatment, while troops have launched a search operation to locate the abducted person and apprehend the perpetrators.