Troops of the Nigerian Army, in a significant operation on April 24, 2026, successfully dismantled a notorious stronghold belonging to the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed affiliate, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), located along the Ubaha-Orsu axis in the Orsu Local Government Area of Imo State. This extensive operation, carried out by troops of the 82 Division in collaboration with other security agencies, was meticulously planned following credible intelligence. Its primary objectives were to flush out IPOB/ESN fighters from the region and, crucially, to locate the remains of two Nigerian Army personnel, Master Warrant Officer Linus Musa Audu (also referred to as Audu Linus, a retired master warrant officer) and Private Gloria Mathew.

These two soldiers were brutally abducted and murdered by IPOB/ESN terrorists in May 2022 while they were en route to their traditional wedding. The intelligence-led mission involved troops advancing towards the suspected hideout, where they came under heavy attack from armed criminals. Demonstrating remarkable resilience and professionalism, the troops decisively engaged the terrorists, successfully repelling multiple ambushes and ultimately forcing the criminals to flee in disarray. Military authorities highlighted that this encounter further exposed the desperation and criminal nature of the group, which persistently targets both innocent citizens and security personnel.

Following the successful clearance of the camp, troops conducted a thorough search of the area, leading to a grim but vital discovery: shallow graves suspected to contain the remains of the slain personnel. These graves were carefully excavated, and the suspected remains were recovered. The Nigerian Army has since secured these remains for comprehensive forensic analysis, including DNA testing, to confirm their identities. Furthermore, efforts are actively underway to liaise with the families of the deceased to facilitate proper identification and to make necessary burial arrangements, ensuring dignity for the fallen soldiers.

The Army emphasized that this operation is an integral part of its ongoing efforts to dismantle criminal networks operating across the South-East region of Nigeria and to bring perpetrators of violence to justice. The military reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to restoring peace and stability in the region, urging law-abiding residents to remain vigilant and continue providing timely and credible information to security agencies. This collective support, the Army underscored, is crucial for maintaining national security, as the Nigerian Army remains resolute, professional, and committed to defending the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Nigeria.