RismadarVoice Reporters, April 21, 2026
Nigerian Army troops under Sector 2 of Operation UDO KA, as part of ongoing Operation Eastern Sanity, have arrested a suspected Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and Eastern Security Network (ESN) commander, along with four other individuals, during a raid in Ebonyi State.
The operation, carried out in the early hours of April 21, 2026, targeted a hideout located in Nwofe, Izzi Local Government Area. Security sources said the raid followed credible intelligence linking the suspects to violent crimes, including the killing of a police officer and the injury of another during an attack in Okuku-Igbo, Oshimili North Local Government Area of Delta State on February 26, 2026. During that incident, the attackers reportedly stole two AK-47 rifles.
According to military authorities, the suspect identified as a wanted figure known by the alias “Calamity” had fled Delta State after intensified security pressure and allegedly established a new base in Ebonyi State, where he continued coordinating criminal activities.
Troops reportedly stormed the location and apprehended five suspects, including the alleged leader and four associates said to be active members of the network. During the arrest, “Calamity” was found with a black handbag containing five mobile phones and several keys. A motorcycle was also recovered at the scene.
The suspects are currently in custody and undergoing interrogation as investigators work to uncover possible collaborators and trace additional weapons believed to be in circulation.
The Nigerian Army described the operation as part of sustained efforts to dismantle armed groups and restore security across the South-East and surrounding regions. It also urged residents to continue supporting security agencies with timely and credible information.
Lieutenant Colonel Olabisi Olalekan Ayeni, Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations for the 82 Division, confirmed the development in a statement issued on April 21, 2026.
