Troops of the 82 Division of the Nigerian Army, in collaboration with other security agencies, have dismantled a camp linked to the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), in Imo State.
The operation, carried out on April 24, 2026, along the Ubaha–Orsu axis in Orsu Local Government Area, followed actionable intelligence and formed part of ongoing clearance and search missions targeting criminal enclaves in the South-East.
Military sources said the operation also aimed to locate the remains of two personnel—Master Warrant Officer Linus Musa Audu and Private Gloria Mathew—who were abducted and killed in May 2022 while travelling for their traditional wedding.
According to the Army, troops advancing on the suspected hideout encountered heavy resistance from armed fighters. The soldiers, however, repelled multiple ambushes after a gun battle, forcing the assailants to retreat.
Subsequent search operations within the camp led to the discovery of shallow graves believed to contain the remains of the slain personnel. The graves were exhumed and the suspected remains recovered.
The Army said the remains have been secured for forensic examination, including DNA analysis, to confirm their identities. Authorities also indicated that efforts are underway to liaise with the families of the deceased for proper identification and burial arrangements.
The military described the operation as a significant step in ongoing efforts to dismantle criminal networks in the region, noting that the discovery of the graves underscores the brutality of the group.
It reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining operations until armed groups are neutralised and stability restored, while urging residents to remain vigilant and continue providing credible information to security agencies.
