In a significant blow to insurgent operations in the South East, the Joint Task Force (JTF) South East Operation UDO KA (OPUK) successfully neutralised a major stronghold in the notorious “Mother Valley” on Thursday.
The operation, which took place on February 26, 2026, involved a coordinated foot assault by the Nigerian Army, the Nigeria Police Force, and the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC).
The combined forces, Securitynewsalert.com learned, launched a daring final assault into the valley, navigating over three hours of restricted and difficult terrain. Despite encountering fierce resistance from suspected members of the proscribed IPOB/ESN, troops successfully penetrated and dominated the enclave.
During the firefight, the hostile elements reportedly utilised heavy gunfire and locally manufactured Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) in a desperate attempt to stall the military’s advance. However, the JTF decisively overwhelmed the group, resulting in the neutralisation of one IPOB member, while several others escaped into the bush with gunshot wounds.
Following the clearance of the “Supreme Headquarters” within the valley, security forces recovered a significant cache of weapons and logistics. The recovered items included two pump-action guns, one locally fabricated gun, and one tear gas gun. Additionally, troops seized seven gas cylinders, solar panels, and a Mikano generator that provided power to the site.
The operation also resulted in the recovery of vehicles from a hidden car park, specifically one Kia saloon car and a black Toyota Sequoia jeep. In a move to ensure the site could no longer be used for insurgent activities, troops destroyed all life-support structures and extremist propaganda materials found on-site.
Parallel to the valley raid, an ambush team apprehended two additional suspects. One was caught attempting to plant an IED, while the other was identified as a scout monitoring troop movements. Both suspects are currently in custody for profiling and further investigation.
“This operation sends a clear and unmistakable warning to all criminal elements: there will be no hiding place, no sanctuary, and no escape,” the JTF stated in an official release.
The Nigerian Army has reaffirmed its commitment to dismantling terrorist networks across the region, assuring law-abiding citizens of a sustained security presence to maintain peace and stability.
