Nigerian Army dismantles IPOB/ESN camps in Anambra, recovers weapons and arrests suspects

The operation, conducted on August 15, 2026, followed intelligence regarding suspected IPOB/ESN activities near Osuakwa, along the boundary between Ihiala and Ogbaru Local Government Areas. During the operation, the joint force engaged in a firefight, resulting in the deaths of three suspected IPOB/ESN members. The camps were overrun and destroyed, and a cache of weapons, explosives, and other items was recovered, including an FN rifle, a pump-action shotgun, dynamite, motorcycles, and batteries.

Further investigation led to the arrest of a suspected IPOB/ESN member identified as Chijioke, along with a man and a woman suspected of being accomplices, who were found with six children. The Commander of 15 Brigade commended the inter-agency cooperation and described the operation as a significant setback for elements undermining peace in the South East. The Nigerian Army affirmed its commitment to continued intelligence-led operations to ensure safety and security in Anambra State and the broader South-East region.