Troops of the Nigerian Army under Operation Eastern Sanity have intensified offensive operations across the South-East, raiding suspected hideouts linked to IPOB/ESN and disrupting a kidnapping network, while recovering explosives and ransom.
In a statement, the Army said sustained military pressure, backed by intelligence and joint-force coordination, has continued to weaken the operational capacity of the group.
On April 14, 2026, troops of Sector 1, supported by the Air Component of Operation Udoka, carried out a targeted clearance operation in the Ajali Forest in Ezeagu Local Government Area of Enugu State.
According to the Army, the operation forced suspected IPOB/ESN to flee in disarray, abandoning key, including an anti-tank improvised explosive device (IED).
The device was later secured by an Explosive Ordnance Disposal team, preventing potential casualties.
The military said troops have since taken control of the area, sustaining clearance operations and dismantling suspected camps and hideouts.
In a related development, troops of the 82 Division Garrison deployed in Adani, Uzo-Uwani Local Government Area, acting on intelligence provided by the Department of State Services, intercepted suspected ransom proceeds linked to a kidnapping syndicate.
The operation led to the arrest of a suspected kidnapper, while a pump-action rifle and ₦2 million, believed to be ransom money, were recovered from his residence.
The suspect and recovered items have been handed over to relevant authorities for further investigation aimed at tracking other members of the network.
The Army said the combined operations have further degraded the operational and financial capabilities of the group, noting that sustained offensives are limiting its ability to regroup.
Reaffirming its commitment, the Nigerian Army said it remains determined to eliminate criminal and insurgent elements in the region, while urging residents to continue supporting security efforts to restore lasting peace and stability across the South-East.
© 2026, Standard Focus. All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from STANDARD FOCUS.