RismadarVoice Reporters
May 8, 2026
Troops of Sector 1, Operation UDO KA, in collaboration with other security agencies, have foiled an attack by suspected members of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), in Imezi Owa community, Ezeagu Local Government Area of Enugu State.
The incident occurred on May 6 during an intelligence-led patrol operation aimed at tracking suspected terrorist collaborators in the community, according to a statement issued on Thursday by the Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, 82 Division Nigerian Army, Lieutenant Colonel Olabisi Olalekan Ayeni.
The Army said troops advancing on foot into the community came under attack from a building allegedly used by the suspects, resulting in injuries to three security personnel.
Despite the ambush, the troops reportedly repelled the attack, secured the area, and evacuated the injured personnel to a military medical facility for treatment.
“While troops were advancing on foot to the community, they were attacked from a building, resulting in injuries to three personnel. Despite the attack, troops maintained operational dominance, foiled the attack and secured the general area,” the statement said.
According to the military, improvised explosive devices (IEDs) stored inside the building detonated during the exchange of gunfire, causing a fire outbreak that destroyed the structure believed to be the suspects’ hideout.
Troops subsequently recovered additional IEDs, improvised hand grenades, and a shrine allegedly used for ritual activities during a search operation around the area.
“The shrine was thoroughly combed and destroyed to prevent continued usage for criminal activities and to safeguard the community members,” the statement added.
The military authorities disclosed that one suspected collaborator was arrested during the operation, while recovered items and the suspect were handed over to the Ezeagu Police Division for further investigation.
Operation UDO KA reassured residents of its commitment to protecting lives and property and urged law-abiding citizens to cooperate with security agencies by providing useful information and avoiding association with criminal elements.
The military further warned members and sympathisers of the proscribed IPOB and ESN to desist from illegal activities or face what it described as the full weight of the law.
“Security forces remain resolute in their determination to build peace in the region and will continue to dismantle criminal networks and deny terrorists any freedom of action,” the statement said.
