Troops Recover N2m, IEDs, Destroy IPOB Strongholds In Enugu

Troops of the Nigerian Army (NA) under “Operation EASTERN SANITY” have destroyed proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra and Eastern Security Network (IPOB/ESN) strongholds, recovered improvised explosive devices and N2 million ransom money in Enugu State.

A statement by the Nigerian Army said troops, backed by superior firepower, intelligence, and joint-force synergy, have continued to expose the group’s weakening structure and inability to withstand sustained military action.

The statement said that, on 14th April, 2026, joint troops of Sector 1, supported by the Air Component of Operation UDO KA, launched a precision strike and clearance operation in Ajali Forest, Ezeagu local government area of Enugu State.

The offensive forced IPOB/ESN fighters to withdraw, abandoning critical assets, including an anti-tank Improvised Explosive Device (IED).

Authorities said the IED was safely secured by the Explosive Ordnance Disposal Security team, averting potential harm to troops and civilians, adding that troops have since established firm dominance over the general area, sustaining aggressive clearance operations and systematically dismantling all terrorist infrastructure.

“The deliberate destruction of hideouts using chainsaws and bulldozers has stripped the criminals of cover, leaving them exposed, scattered and unable to regroup or mount any meaningful resistance,” the statement said.

In a related operation on the same day, troops of the 82 Division Garrison deployed at Adani in Uzo-Uwani LGA, acting on credible intelligence from the Department of State Services, tracked and intercepted ransom proceeds linked to a kidnapping syndicate.

Troops during the raid arrested a notorious kidnap suspect, and recovered a pump-action rifle and the sum of Two Million Naira (N2,000,000), Cash believed to be ransom funds, from the suspect’s residence.

The statement said the suspect and recovered items have been handed over to the appropriate authorities for a thorough investigation to track other members of the criminal gang.

“The operation further degraded the IPOB/ESN’s operational and financial capacity,” it stated.

According to the statement, the outcome of operations demonstrates that IPOB/ESN elements are steadily losing ground, resources and cohesion under sustained military pressure.