Troops neutralise ESN operatives, recover IEDs in Anambra

Troops of Sector 5 of the Joint Task Force South-East, Operation UDO KA, working alongside other security agencies, have neutralised three suspected operatives of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), during an operation in Anambra State.

The operation followed credible intelligence reports indicating that armed criminals disguised in military camouflage and Nigeria Police uniforms were planning attacks in parts of the state.

Acting on the intelligence, the joint security team tracked the suspects along the Ogboji–Ajali axis in Orumba South Local Government Area on June 23, 2026. The suspects, who were travelling in a white Toyota Sienna vehicle, were intercepted, triggering a gun battle.

According to the Nigerian Army, three ESN operatives were killed during the exchange of fire.

Following the operation, security personnel conducted a search of the area and recovered a cache of weapons and other items, including a PKM machine gun with 53 rounds of ammunition, two AK-47 rifles, additional rounds of 7.62mm and 5.56mm ammunition, four improvised explosive devices (IEDs), communication gadgets, a laptop, and the vehicle allegedly used by the suspects.

The troops also recovered identification and financial documents believed to belong to members of the group.

The Army said the operation underscores the effectiveness of intelligence-led and joint security operations aimed at dismantling criminal and terrorist networks operating in the South-East region.

It added that troops are continuing efforts to track down and apprehend other members of the group who escaped during the encounter.

Reaffirming its commitment to national security, the Nigerian Army assured residents that it would continue to work with other security agencies to deny criminal elements freedom of operation and maintain peace across the region.

The Army also urged members of the public to support security agencies with timely and credible information, noting that public cooperation remains vital to sustaining operational successes and enhancing security.