Troops from the Joint Task Force South-East, operating under the code name “Operation UDO KA,” have neutralized eight and apprehended five armed members of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) in Anambra State.
The Army’s spokesman, Lt.-Col. Jonah Unuakhalu, confirmed the operation’s success in a statement on Wednesday, stating that Sector 5 troops conducted a clearance operation targeting the IPOB and its armed affiliate, the Eastern Security Network (ESN).
The operation took place in the Ogunka Camp of Orumba South Local Government Area, where troops clashed with the insurgents.
During the firefight, the IPOB members attempted to flee but were intercepted by the blocking force, leading to the neutralization of five of them.
Among the items recovered were two AK-47 rifles, a pump-action gun, four Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs), and a 12V/75 amp battery used for detonation.
Additionally, on January 13, troops stationed at Aguata Local Government Area apprehended five more suspects traveling in a black Ford Edge.
A search of the vehicle revealed a locally made pistol, three live cartridges, and nine mobile phones.
Earlier, on January 8, troops encountered IPOB members during a routine patrol along the Orsumoghu-Burrow Pit road, neutralizing three militants.
The same operation uncovered two IED cylinders planted by the roadside, one of which exploded during detonation, resulting in the tragic loss of one soldier.
The operation also saw successful interventions in kidnapping activities along the Enugu-Kogi border.
The swift response by joint security forces led to the release of all kidnapped passengers.
In a separate anti-illegal oil bunkering operation, troops discovered and destroyed a site in Egbema West, Imo, where they found over 5,000 liters of illegal refined Dual Purpose Kerosene and 1,500 liters of Automotive Gas Oil.
Maj.-Gen. Hassan Dada, Force Commander of Operation UDO KA, called on citizens to support the ongoing operations by providing reliable information.
He reiterated that security is a shared responsibility, urging the public to report any suspicious activity via the operation’s toll-free line.
The military reaffirmed its commitment to upholding security in the South-East region, ensuring the safety of citizens and curbing illegal activities in line with established protocols.
