Troops of the Nigerian Army have dismantled a suspected camp linked to the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), in Imo State, uncovering shallow graves believed to contain the remains of murdered soldiers.
The operation was carried out on April 24, 2026, by personnel of the 82 Division in collaboration with other security agencies. The mission targeted a known hideout along the Ubaha-Orsu axis in Orsu Local Government Area.
According to military authorities, the raid followed credible intelligence aimed at flushing out IPOB/ESN fighters and locating the remains of two soldiers — Master Warrant Officer Linus Musa Audu and Private Gloria Mathew — who were abducted and killed in May 2022 while travelling for their traditional wedding.
During the operation, troops reportedly encountered heavy resistance from armed fighters but successfully repelled multiple ambushes, forcing the attackers to retreat.
A subsequent search of the area led to the discovery of shallow graves suspected to contain the remains of the slain personnel. The graves were excavated, and the remains recovered for further examination.
The military stated that the recovered remains have been secured and will undergo forensic analysis, including DNA testing, to confirm their identities. Efforts are also ongoing to reach out to the families of the deceased for proper identification and burial arrangements.
The Army described the operation as part of its broader campaign to dismantle criminal networks in the South-East and bring those responsible for violence to justice.
It also urged residents to remain vigilant and continue providing timely and credible information to security agencies, reaffirming its commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s sovereignty and restoring peace in the region.
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