Ebonyi: Security Forces Capture Alleged IPOB Commander ‘Calamity’ Linked to Delta Police Killing

Security forces under Operation UDO KA, as part of Operation EASTERN SANITY, have arrested a suspected Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and Eastern Security Network (ESN) operative identified as “Calamity” along with four others during a raid in Ebonyi State.

The arrests were carried out in the early hours of 21 April 2026 at a suspected hideout in Nwofe, Izzi Local Government Area.

According to military authorities, the operation followed intelligence linking the suspect and his group to an attack in Okuku-Igbo, Oshimili North Local Government Area of Delta State on 26 February 2026. During that incident, a police officer was killed, another was injured, and two AK-47 rifles were reportedly taken.

Security sources stated that after increased pressure in Delta State, the group allegedly relocated to Ebonyi State, where they established a new base of operations.

Troops reportedly stormed the location based on actionable intelligence and arrested five suspects, including the alleged leader and his associates, described as key members of the network.

Items recovered at the point of arrest included a black handbag containing five mobile phones and several keys. A black motorcycle was also seized during the operation.

The suspects are currently in custody and are being investigated as authorities work to identify possible collaborators and recover additional weapons believed to be in circulation.

The Nigerian Army said the operation forms part of ongoing efforts to disrupt armed groups, improve security across the South East and adjoining areas, and support civilian safety through coordinated military action with other security agencies.

Authorities also urged residents to provide timely and credible information to assist ongoing security operations.