Army raids IPOB/ESN strongholds, intercepts kidnap network, recovers IEDs, cash

Troops of the Nigerian Army under Operation Eastern Sanity have intensified operations in the South-East, raiding suspected IPOB/ESN strongholds and dismantling a kidnapping network, with the recovery of explosives and ransom funds.

 

The Army disclosed that the coordinated offensive, backed by intelligence and air support, targeted key locations linked to the proscribed group, describing the operation as a major blow to its operational capacity.

 

In a statement, the Army said, “Relentless pressure mounted by the troops, backed by superior firepower, intelligence and joint-force synergy, has continued to expose the group’s weakening structure and inability to withstand sustained military action.”

 

It explained that on April 14, 2026, troops of Sector 1, supported by the Air Component of Operation Udoka, carried out a precision strike in Ajali Forest, Ezeagu Local Government Area of Enugu State.

 

According to the statement, the operation forced suspected IPOB/ESN elements to retreat, abandoning critical assets, including an anti-tank Improvised Explosive Device.

 

“The offensive forced IPOB/ESN elements into a chaotic retreat… The failed attempt to deploy the device underscores the group’s desperation and declining operational competence,” the Army said.

 

It added that the IED was safely recovered and neutralised by an Explosive Ordnance Disposal team, preventing potential casualties.

 

Troops have since established control of the area, with ongoing clearance operations aimed at dismantling remaining hideouts.

 

“The deliberate destruction of hideouts… has stripped the criminals of cover, leaving them exposed, scattered and unable to regroup,” the statement added.

 

In a related operation, troops of the 82 Division Garrison in Uzo-Uwani Local Government Area, acting on intelligence from the Department of State Services, intercepted ransom proceeds linked to a kidnapping syndicate.

 

The Army said a suspected kidnapper was arrested, while a pump-action rifle and N2 million believed to be ransom funds were recovered from the suspect’s residence.

 

“The operation further degraded the IPOB/ESN’s operational and financial capacity,” it stated.

 

The suspect and recovered items have been handed over to relevant authorities for further investigation.

 

The Army reiterated its commitment to sustained operations in the region, assuring residents of continued efforts to restore peace.

 

“The Nigerian Army remains unrelenting… and urges continued public support as operations intensify to restore enduring peace and stability across the South-East,” the statement said.