Troops of the Joint Task Force South East, Operation UDO KA, have dismantled suspected Indigenous People of Biafra/Eastern Security Network (IPOB/ESN) strongholds in Anambra State, recovering weapons and materials believed to be intended for the fabrication of Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs).
The operation, conducted on Saturday, August 22, 2026, was carried out in collaboration with the Maritime Component, Department of State Services (DSS) and the Anambra Vigilante Group.
The security forces launched a coordinated dawn assault on identified locations at Obene and Abator villages within the Ochuche and Umunankwo communities in Ogbaru Local Government Area.
According to the Nigerian Army, the suspected terrorists opened fire when they sighted the advancing troops but subsequently abandoned their positions and fled into the surrounding terrain.
Troops responded with superior firepower and pursued the fleeing elements. Blood stains discovered along the withdrawal route suggested that some of the fleeing suspects may have sustained gunshot injuries during the encounter.
During the operation, troops neutralised one suspected terrorist, while other fleeing members reportedly escaped with the body of another neutralised member.
The offensive successfully dislodged the group from its identified strongholds, denying the suspected terrorists the opportunity to use the locations as bases for planning and launching further attacks.
A subsequent search of the abandoned positions led to the recovery of two pump-action guns, two motorcycles, IED-making materials and other assorted items.
The recovery of the explosive-making materials represents a significant operational gain, as it is expected to further limit the group’s capacity to manufacture explosive devices for attacks against security personnel, critical infrastructure and civilians.
Following the operation, troops consolidated their positions and intensified searches across surrounding areas to track fleeing members and prevent them from regrouping or establishing alternative bases.
The Nigerian Army, in collaboration with other security agencies under the Joint Task Force South East, Operation UDO KA, reaffirmed its commitment to sustained operations against terrorist and criminal networks across the South-East.
The force said ongoing operations would continue to deny hostile elements safe havens, degrade their operational capabilities and create a safer environment for law-abiding citizens and communities across the region.
