In an effort to deter the enforcement of the illegal sit-at-home order declared by the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), a joint operation involving troops from the 82 Division of the Nigerian Army, sister services, Nigeria Police, and other security agencies was conducted. The operation targeted hideouts and training camps belonging to IPOB/ESN in the Orsomoghu Forest, spanning Anambra and Imo States.
According to Brigadier General Onyema Nwachukwu, the Director of Army Public Relations, the raid operation took place on Monday, July 31, 2023. It was prompted by reports of violent activities carried out by the irredentist group in Onitsha, Nnewi, and Iheme Obosi in Anambra State, as well as New Market in Enugu State, where the illegal two-week sit-at-home order was being enforced.
During the raid, the troops successfully cleared several IPOB camps in Ekeututu, Orsomoghu, Lilu, and Mother Valley. They encountered armed fighters from the group who utilized Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) known as Ogbunigwe and locally fabricated mortar tubes. A fierce firefight ensued, but the determined troops managed to overpower the irredentist group, forcing them to abandon their positions and flee with gunshot wounds into nearby bushes.
As a result of the operation, five fleeing members of the group were arrested, and various items, including one IPOB flag, one CCTV camera, two detonated IED bombs, and a fabricated mortar tube, were recovered. However, five soldiers and two Nigeria Police operatives sustained injuries from the IED detonations caused by the criminals.
Brigadier General Nwachukwu urged all law-abiding citizens of the South East to continue supporting the ongoing operations by providing actionable information and to disregard the unlawful two-week sit-at-home order. He encouraged people to resume their normal daily activities and businesses without fear.
Assuring the public of their safety, he emphasized that the Nigerian Army, in collaboration with sister services and security agencies, will continue to protect and safeguard the lives and property of the people of South East Nigeria within the confines of the law and the rules of engagement.
