Troops of Sector 1, Operation UDO KA, in collaboration with other security agencies, have foiled an attack by suspected members of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), during an intelligence-led patrol in Imezi Owa community, Ezeagu Local Government Area of Enugu State.
According to a statement issued on Thursday by Lieutenant Colonel Olabisi Olalekan Ayeni, Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations, 82 Division Nigerian Army, the operation was carried out on May 6, 2026, following intelligence reports on the activities of terrorist collaborators in the community.
Ayeni said troops advancing on foot into the community came under attack from a building allegedly used by the suspected terrorists.
“While troops were advancing on foot to the community, they were attacked from a building, resulting in injuries to three personnel,” he said.
He added that despite the assault, troops “maintained operational dominance, foiled the attack and secured the general area,” while the wounded soldiers were evacuated to a military medical facility for treatment.
The Army spokesman disclosed that during the gun battle, improvised explosive devices allegedly stored inside the building detonated, sparking a fire that destroyed the hideout.
“Subsequent searches around the general area uncovered more IEDs, improvised hand grenades and a shrine used for ritual activities,” Ayeni stated.
He said the shrine was “thoroughly combed and destroyed” to prevent its continued use for criminal activities and to safeguard residents of the area.
According to the statement, one suspected collaborator was arrested during follow-up operations, while recovered items and the suspect were handed over to the Nigeria Police, Ezeagu Division, for further investigation.
The military reassured residents of its commitment to protecting lives and property, urging law-abiding citizens to remain calm and support security agencies with credible information.
“The law-abiding citizens of Imezi Owa community and its environs are encouraged to remain calm, desist from harbouring criminal elements and cooperate with security agencies,” Ayeni said.
He also warned members of the proscribed IPOB/ESN and their sympathisers to abandon criminal activities or face the full weight of the law.
“Security forces remain resolute in their determination to build the peace in the region and will continue to dismantle criminal networks and deny terrorists any freedom of action,” the statement added.
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