Photos: Joint Nigerian Army and Police Forces Smash IPOB/ESN Strongholds in Abia, Enugu, Seize Arsenal of Weapons

In a remarkable display of combined force, the 82 Division of the Nigerian Army, in collaboration with the Nigerian Police, has successfully eradicated three combatants affiliated with the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and the Eastern Security Network (ESN). This dramatic confrontation unfolded during a dawn clearance operation on Monday, September 18, 2023, in the heart of Igboro Forest, nestled between the Arochukwu and Ohafia Local Government Areas of Abia State.

The valiant troops wasted no time eradicating the concealed lairs that these groups had employed to orchestrate nefarious activities. These covert camps were unveiled following weeks of rigorous surveillance, revealing that IPOB/ESN had been utilizing the forest terrain as a training ground and operational base for launching attacks on civilians, security personnel, and government installations.

Further exploration of these camps led to the discovery of a cache of weaponry and ammunition, among other items. The inventory of seized items included an improvised 16 Multi Barrel Rocket Launcher (MBRL) Gun mounted on a vehicle, an improvised 12 MBRL Gun, an improvised 6 MBRL Gun, an AK-47 Rifle, a Dane Gun, six locally-made Rocket Launchers, four Improvised Explosive Devices, five Fragmental Jackets, a Baofeng Radio, military camouflage uniforms, and an assortment of charms.

In a parallel development on the same day, the intrepid forces from the 82 Division of the Nigerian Army, in tandem with the Nigerian Police Force, acted on reliable intelligence to dismantle an IPOB/ESN hideout in Ezioha Mgbowo, located in the Awgu Local Government Area of Enugu State. The armed insurgents were in the process of enforcing an unlawful sit-at-home order in the area when the vigilant troops launched their operation.

Upon sighting the approaching troops, the armed insurgents opened fire, initiating a fierce firefight. However, the relentless response of the troops, backed by overwhelming firepower, led to the neutralization of three of the insurgents, with the remaining members fleeing in disarray. The security forces additionally confiscated three Pump Action Guns and ten Machetes from the fleeing combatants.

This resounding success is a testament to the dedication and coordinated efforts of the Nigerian Army and the Police Force. The public is urged to continue providing credible information to enhance the ongoing fight against terrorism, insurgency, and other criminal activities.