Troops Raid IPOB/ESN Camp, Recover Suspected Remains Of Slain Personnel
By Anne Osemekeh, Abuja
Troops of 82 Division, Nigerian Army, working alongside sister services and other security agencies, dismantled a notorious camp belonging to the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), in Imo State.
The NA disclosed this on Saturday, saying that the operation, conducted on 24 April 2026 along the Ubaha–Orsu axis of Orsu Local Government Area, followed actionable intelligence and formed part of a deliberate clearance mission to destroy IPOB/ESN enclaves and uncover evidence linked to past atrocities in the area.
The raid was also tied to the tragic case of two Nigerian Army personnel—Master Warrant Officer Linus Musa Audu and Private Gloria Mathew—who were abducted and murdered by IPOB/ESN elements in May 2022 while travelling for their traditional wedding. Their killing drew widespread condemnation and has remained a painful symbol of the group’s violent campaign against security personnel.
As troops advanced on the suspected hideout, they came under heavy fire from armed elements. In a display of tactical superiority and resilience, the troops engaged the attackers, repelled multiple ambushes, and forced the criminals to retreat in disarray.
Following the successful clearance, a thorough search of the camp led to the grim discovery of shallow graves believed to contain the remains of the slain personnel. The graves were carefully excavated, and suspected human remains were recovered for further examination.
According to the NA, the remains have been secured for detailed forensic analysis, including DNA testing, to confirm their identities. Authorities are also liaising with the families of the fallen soldiers to ensure proper identification and facilitate dignified burial arrangements.
The operation underscores the Nigerian Army’s commitment to securing justice for fallen personnel while sustaining pressure on IPOB/ESN networks. It also highlights ongoing efforts to dismantle criminal infrastructure and restore lasting peace across the South East.
Meanwhile the Army has reassured the public that operations will continue until all threats are neutralised, and has urged citizens to remain vigilant and support security agencies with timely and credible information.
