Army Dismantles IPOB/ESN Camps, Recovers IED Materials

On Saturday, August 22, 2026, troops from the Joint Task Force South East, under Operation UDO KA, dismantled identified IPOB/ESN strongholds in Ogbaru Local Government Area, Anambra State. The operation, conducted in collaboration with the Maritime Component, Department of State Services, and the Anambra Vigilante Group, involved a coordinated dawn offensive targeting strongholds at Obene and Abator villages within Ochuche and Umunankwo communities.

Upon sighting the advancing troops, suspected IPOB/ESN elements opened fire but fled the scene. The Army reported that during the pursuit, one suspected member was neutralized, and blood stains indicated that others may have been injured.

A search of the abandoned camps led to the recovery of two pump-action guns, two motorcycles, and materials for making improvised explosive devices (IEDs). The Army described this seizure as a significant operational gain, aimed at degrading the group's capacity to manufacture explosives for attacks.

Ongoing operations are focused on preventing the regrouping of fleeing members and ensuring safety for law-abiding citizens in the region.