By Mick Oseji, Asaba
Troops of Joint Task Force South East, Operation UDO KA, have raided two suspected IPOB/ESN strongholds in Ogbaru Local Government Area of Anambra State, killing one fighter and recovering weapons and materials for making Improvised Explosive Devices.
The dawn operation was carried out on Saturday, August 22, 2026, in conjunction with the Maritime Component, DSS, and Anambra Vigilante Group. The targets were identified camps in Obene Village and Abator Village, within Ochuche and Umunankwo communities.
Military sources said the fighters opened fire on sighting the troops but fled under superior firepower. Troops immediately pursued them into the surrounding bush.
“Blood stains observed along their withdrawal route indicated that some of the terrorists sustained gunshot wounds during the encounter,” a statement from the JTF said.
*One Killed, Camps Dismantled*
During the chase, troops neutralised one of the terrorists. Other fleeing members were said to have escaped with the body of another killed fighter.
The assault effectively dislodged the group from the locations, denying them use of the camps as bases for further attacks.
Weapons and Bomb Materials Recovered
A search of the strongholds yielded significant recoveries, including:
– 2 pump-action guns
– 2 motorcycles
– IED-making materials
– Other sundry items
“The seizure of the explosive-making materials represents a significant operational gain, as it further degrades the terrorists’ capacity to fabricate explosive devices for attacks against security forces, critical infrastructure and innocent civilians,” the statement added.
Following the raid, troops consolidated their positions and launched further sweeps of the area to track fleeing members and prevent regrouping.
The Nigerian Army said Operation UDO KA remains committed to dismantling terrorist and criminal networks across the South East.
“Ongoing operations will continue to deny these elements safe havens, degrade their capabilities and create a more secure environment for law-abiding citizens and communities across the region,” it stated.
