Nigerian Army Storms, Destroys Major IPOB/ESN Terror Camp in Abia, Recovers Weapons and Millions in Ransom

Troops of the 14 Brigade Headquarters of the Nigerian Army, based in Ohafia and attached to the 144 Battalion in Ukwa West Local Government Area of Abia State, have raided and destroyed a camp allegedly operated by the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN). The operation, conducted following credible intelligence, targeted a location on the boundary between Ebubengwa and Abayi Nchokoro communities in Ugwunagbo Local Government Area.

According to military sources, the camp was being used by the group to coordinate various criminal activities within and beyond the state. On arrival, troops reportedly came under fire from the occupants, leading to a fierce gun battle in which injuries were sustained on both sides. After overpowering the group, soldiers gained access to the camp, where they recovered a large sum of money believed to be ransom from kidnap operations.

Weapons seized from the camp included an AK-47 rifle, pump-action guns, a cache of ammunition, and a chainsaw. Troops also found an uninstalled CCTV system, which the group allegedly planned to use for surveillance, as well as a generator. Other recovered items included bags of uncooked rice, a gas cylinder, cooking utensils, charms, and IPOB insignia.

Five SUVs were discovered at the site, but due to difficult terrain, the vehicles could not be evacuated and were subsequently set ablaze along with the camp. Military sources said the forested area made recovery impossible.

Troops are continuing operations in pursuit of fleeing suspects, some of whom are believed to have sustained gunshot wounds during the clash.