Troops Crack Down on IPOB/ESN Terrorists in Anambra State

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Troops of the 15 Brigade, Nigerian Army, have dismantled three terrorist camps in Anambra State, killing 3 suspected members of the Indigenous People of Biafra/Eastern Security Network (IPOB/ESN). The operation was led by the Joint Task Force South East, Operation Udoka.

A Brief Background on the Operation Udoka

Operation Udoka is a military operation launched by the Nigerian Army to combat terrorism and crimes in the South East region. The operation was established to address the growing security concerns in the region, particularly the activities of the IPOB/ESN.

What Happened During the Operation?

According to a statement by the Army, the intelligence-led operation was conducted in the early hours of Saturday, 15 August 2026, following credible information on the activities of suspected IPOB/ESN elements operating from camps located at Osuakwa, along the boundary between Ihiala and Ogbaru Local Government Areas of the state. The joint force came under hostile fire from the terrorists but responded decisively, overwhelming the criminals after a fierce firefight.

Recovery of Arms and Explosives

During the operation, the joint force recovered a cache of weapons, explosives, and logistics, including one FN rifle with 10 rounds of 7.62mm NATO ammunition, one pump-action shotgun with five cartridges, 15 sticks of dynamite, four motorcycles. Others were one gas cylinder, and three hybrid batteries, two car batteries, three hand-held radio chargers, as well as other items believed to have supported the group's criminal activities.

Key Facts

  • 3 terrorists were killed during the operation.
  • 3 terrorist camps were dismantled by the joint force.
  • The operation was led by the Joint Task Force South East, Operation Udoka.
  • The recovered items include one FN rifle, one pump-action shotgun, 15 sticks of dynamite, and four motorcycles.
  • The operation is part of the ongoing efforts to combat terrorism and crimes in the South East region.

A Nigerian Perspective

The Nigerian Army has reassured the public that it will continue to sustain aggressive intelligence-led operations in collaboration with sister security agencies and critical local stakeholders to locate, disrupt, and dismantle terrorist and criminal networks. This operation is a clear indication of the Nigerian Army's commitment to ensuring the safety and security of law-abiding residents across Anambra State and the wider South East region.