The Nigerian Army has said its troops operating under Operation Eastern Sanity conducted coordinated offensives across parts of Enugu State, targeting suspected camps of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN).
In a statement released on Wednesday, the military said troops intensified operations across the region, forcing suspected IPOB/ESN elements into what it described as a “chaotic retreat,” during which they allegedly abandoned weapons and other operational equipment.
The Army stated that on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, soldiers from Sector 1, in collaboration with the Air Component of Operation UDO KA, launched a targeted strike on a suspected militant hideout in Ajali Forest, Ezeagu Local Government Area of Enugu State.
According to the statement, the operation led to the recovery of an anti-tank improvised explosive device (IED), which was reportedly abandoned by fleeing fighters.
The military said the device was safely neutralised by an Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team, preventing possible casualties among civilians and security personnel.
“The failed attempt to deploy the device underscores the group’s desperation and declining operational competence. The IED was safely secured by the Explosive Ordnance Disposal Security team, averting potential harm to troops and civilians,” the statement said.
Following the operation, the Army said troops took control of the forest area and demolished suspected hideouts using heavy equipment, including bulldozers and chainsaws, in what it described as a systematic effort to dismantle insurgent infrastructure and deny them safe havens.
In a related development, troops of the 82 Division Garrison in Adani, Uzo-Uwani Local Government Area, acting on intelligence from the Department of State Services (DSS), reportedly intercepted funds linked to a kidnapping syndicate.
The Army said the operation led to the arrest of a suspected kidnapper and the recovery of a pump-action rifle, along with ₦2 million believed to be ransom proceeds.
“The suspect and recovered items have been handed over to the appropriate authorities for further investigation to track other members of the criminal gang,” the statement added.
It further claimed that the operations have weakened the operational and financial capacity of criminal elements in the region.
Despite these claims, security challenges in Nigeria’s South-East persist, with ongoing allegations of human rights abuses and counterclaims from separatist groups continuing to fuel tensions.
The Army reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining operations aimed at eliminating criminal and insurgent networks and restoring lasting peace in the region.
However, independent verification of the military’s claims remains limited due to restricted access to several affected areas.