Troops of the Nigerian Army have escalated operations against suspected IPOB/ESN elements in the South-East, dismantling key strongholds and recovering both explosives and ransom during coordinated offensives.
The operations, conducted under Operation EASTERN SANITY, saw troops intensify pressure on the group, forcing fighters to abandon as military advances continued across multiple attacks.
On April 14, 2026, forces under Sector 1, working alongside the Air Component of Operation UDO KA, carried out a targeted strike in Ajali Forest, located in Ezeagu Local Government Area of Enugu State.
The operation reportedly triggered a disorganised withdrawal by the group.
During the raid, troops recovered an anti-tank Improvised Explosive Device (IED), which officials say had been left behind during the retreat.
Military authorities noted that the discovery of the device pointed to what they described as weakening operational capacity within the group.
The Army stated that the IED was safely handled by an Explosive Ordnance Disposal team, preventing possible casualties among both security personnel and civilians.
Following the operation, troops moved to consolidate control of the area, destroying hideouts and clearing suspected criminals infrastructure.
Equipment including bulldozers and chainsaws were deployed to remove cover previously used by the fighters.
“Relentless pressure mounted by the troops, backed by superior firepower, intelligence and joint-force synergy, has continued to expose the group’s weakening structure and inability to withstand sustained military action.”
In a separate operation on the same day, troops of the 82 Division Garrison stationed in Adani, Uzo-Uwani Local Government Area, acted on intelligence provided by the Department of State Services to track suspected kidnapping ransom .
The operation led to the arrest of a suspected kidnapper and the recovery of a pump-action rifle, alongside ₦2 million believed to be proceeds from ransom payments.
Security sources said the suspect is currently in custody, while investigations are ongoing to identify and apprehend other members of the network.
The Army said the latest operations have significantly disrupted both the operational capabilities and funding sources of the group.
Reaffirming its position, the Nigerian Army stated that it remains committed to sustaining the offensive until all criminal and insurgent elements are eliminated, while urging residents to continue supporting security agencies with timely and credible information.
