Troops of the Nigerian Army have intensified operations across the South-East, successfully raiding strongholds linked to the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN).
The operation, carried out under Operation Eastern Sanity, saw joint forces overrun key hideouts in Ajali Forest, located in Ezeagu LGA of Enugu State. Backed by air support from Operation Udoka, troops launched a coordinated assault that forced suspected militants to flee, abandoning weapons and an anti-tank improvised explosive device (IED), which was later safely secured.
Military authorities said the offensive reflects growing pressure on the group, weakening its structure and operational capacity. Troops have since taken control of the area, destroying camps and dismantling infrastructure used by the militants.
In a related development, soldiers operating in Uzo-Uwani LGA, acting on intelligence from the Department of State Services (DSS), intercepted ransom money linked to a kidnapping network. A suspect was arrested, with a pump-action rifle and ₦2 million recovered during the raid.
The Army reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining operations aimed at eliminating criminal elements in the region, while urging residents to continue supporting security agencies in restoring peace and stability.