Troops of Operation UDO KA have successfully neutralized six terrorists in a raid on the camp of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), located in Igboro Forest, Arochukwu Local Government of Abia State. This operation took place on Saturday and was disclosed by the Nigerian Army on its X handle on Sunday. The raid was initiated in response to an attack on army troops in Aba the previous week.
The army detailed that this intelligence-led operation involved troops encountering Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) along their advance, resulting in one soldier sustaining minor injuries from shrapnel. Despite these obstacles, the troops’ superior firepower effectively neutralized six members of the terrorist group, while others managed to flee into nearby bushes, leaving behind trails of blood.
During the operation, the troops recovered several weapons, including three locally fabricated Rocket Propelled Grenade (RPG) launchers and two locally fabricated artillery guns with tripods and bombs. Additionally, they seized dane guns, Biafran flags, and two vehicles—a Toyota Tundra and a Hilux—which were destroyed on-site. The army also demolished all terrorist camps found, which were marked with various inscriptions.
The Joint Task Force Operation UDO KA has urged the residents of Abia State to continue cooperating with security agencies by providing credible and timely information to help eradicate these criminal elements from the state and the entire South East region of Nigeria.
This military operation comes in the wake of a deadly attack last week, where six soldiers were killed at Obikabia Junction Checkpoint in Obingwa Local Government Area, near Aba metropolis. The troops, part of Operation UDO KA, were deployed to enforce peace and protect citizens when they were ambushed by IPOB/ESN militants. The attackers reportedly arrived in three tinted Toyota Prado SUVs from surrounding built-up areas.
In the ensuing crossfire, six civilians also lost their lives. The military, deeply affected by the loss of their soldiers, has vowed to retaliate fiercely. Major General Edward Buba, a spokesperson for the military, emphasized the profound loss felt by the armed forces and the necessity of a strong response. He pointed out that the terrorists’ strength lies in their ability to blend in with the local population, making the support of the people crucial for the military’s success.
The statement from Major General Buba highlights the importance of civilian cooperation in defeating the terrorists. He stressed that the military would apply overwhelming pressure on the IPOB/ESN to ensure their total defeat. The recent attack on soldiers was part of an attempt by the terrorists to enforce a sit-at-home order across the South-East, showcasing their ongoing threat to regional stability.
This situation highlights the ongoing conflict between Nigerian security forces and the IPOB/ESN, a group seeking the secession of the South-East region from Nigeria. The Nigerian government has classified IPOB as a terrorist organization, leading to frequent clashes between the group and security forces. The recent operations by the military are part of a broader effort to restore peace and security in the region, aiming to dismantle the infrastructure of the IPOB/ESN and prevent further attacks on civilians and military personnel alike.
Residents are reminded of the critical role they play in this conflict, with the military calling for continuous vigilance and cooperation to ensure the safety and security of all. The Nigerian Army’s recent successes in these operations demonstrate their commitment to eradicating terrorism and restoring peace to the affected areas.
