In a joint operation, the 82 Division Nigerian Army, Navy, and Air Force, alongside the Nigerian Police and Security and Civil Defence Corps, have successfully cleared multiple camps belonging to the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed faction, the Eastern Security Network (ESN). The operation took place along Umulolo – Umukele – Amousu and Agbobu in Okigwe Local Government Area of Imo State.
Despite facing several Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) enroute, the combined forces stormed and destroyed terrorist hideouts, uncovering signs of terrorist activities, occultic practices, and acts of cannibalism. The troops also dismantled the IED-making factory of the terrorists. Notably, they recovered rank badges of two kidnapped policemen from the Enugu-Port Harcourt road, as well as Biafran currencies, fake US Dollar bills, Biafran Liberation Army T-shirts, and other related insignia. Two suspects were apprehended, and the bodies of burnt policemen were discovered for proper burial.
Simultaneously, in Owerri Metropolis, troops on night patrol foiled a kidnapping attempt by suspected IPOB/ESN terrorists, engaging them in a gun battle and rescuing the victim. The seized items included one AK-47 rifle with a magazine, a G-3 rifle with mounted magazines, and the vehicle used by the criminals.
In efforts to strengthen civil-military relations, Major General Hassan Taiwo Dada, the General Officer Commanding 82 Division Nigerian Army, visited Isiuzo-Amufu community in Enugu State. Addressing the community, he emphasized the need for cooperation to address insecurity. The GOC assured residents of his commitment to resolving herders-farmers clashes and youth restiveness in the region.
During the visit, Major General Dada met with other security agencies in the Local Government Area, urging them to maintain collaborative efforts for enhanced security. He expressed gratitude for their cooperation and encouraged the people of the South East region to provide timely, reliable, and credible information through the Emergency Line 193 (pressing 2). The Nigerian Army remains dedicated to protecting lives and property within the region while upholding constitutional responsibilities within the confines of the law.