Army dismantles IPOB/ESN camps, recovers IED materials in Anambra

The Nigerian Army has dismantled identified camps of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and the East String Network (ESN) in Anambra State, recovering weapons, motorcycles, and materials used in the production of improvised explosive devices (IEDs). The operation, conducted on August 22, 2026, in collaboration with the Maritime Component, Department of State Services, and the Anambra Vigilante Group, targeted strongholds in Ogbaru Local Government Area.

During the coordinated dawn offensive, the Army engaged with suspected IPOB/ESN elements who initially opened fire before abandoning their positions. The pursuit resulted in the neutralization of one suspected member and the escape of others, with blood stains indicating potential gunshot wounds among the fleeing individuals. A subsequent search of abandoned strongholds led to the recovery of two pump-action guns, two motorcycles, and IED-making materials, described by the Army as a significant operational gain.

The operation aims to deny these elements safe havens, degrade their capacity to manufacture explosive devices, and create a safer environment for law-abiding citizens.

Brief written by urgent.news from Punch's own syndicated text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.