Troops of the 82 Division of the Nigerian Army have dismantled a camp linked to the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), in Imo State, recovering suspected remains of two soldiers abducted and killed in 2022.
The Army disclosed this in an operational report released to journalists on Saturday in Abuja, detailing a coordinated mission carried out alongside other security agencies.
According to the report, the operation took place on Friday along the Ubaha–Orsu axis in Orsu Local Government Area, as part of ongoing clearance efforts targeting IPOB/ESN elements in the region.
The military said the operation also aimed to locate the remains of Master Warrant Officer Linus Musa Audu and Private Gloria Mathew, who were abducted and killed in May 2022 while travelling for their traditional wedding.
Troops advancing on the suspected hideout reportedly came under heavy attack but responded with superior firepower, repelling multiple ambushes and forcing the assailants to flee.
“The encounter underscores the desperation of the criminal group, which continues to target both security personnel and innocent civilians,” the report noted.
Following the clearance of the camp, troops conducted a detailed search and uncovered shallow graves believed to contain the remains of the slain personnel.
“The remains have been exhumed and secured for forensic examination, including DNA analysis, to confirm their identities,” the report stated, adding that efforts are ongoing to liaise with the families for proper identification and dignified burial arrangements.
The Army reiterated its commitment to sustaining operations aimed at restoring security in the region and bringing perpetrators of violent crimes to justice.
The development follows the earlier killing of the two personnel, who were reportedly attacked while travelling to Imo State for their traditional marriage rites. Military authorities had described the incident as a “cold-blooded murder” and vowed to ensure that those responsible are apprehended and prosecuted.
