Troops from Operation Udoka have reported the arrest of a prominent figure linked to the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and several commanders associated with the group’s militant wing in Southeast Nigeria. This operation took place in Orsu, Imo State, and other areas of Abia State. Among those detained is Pius Iguh, recognized as a founding member of IPOB’s armed faction, the Eastern Security Network (ESN).
Major General Edward Buba, the Director of Defence Media Operations, announced that troops successfully neutralized 24 terrorists and apprehended 12 extremists during these missions. “Our troops at the Forward Operating Base in Orsu executed a targeted operation, which led to the capture of an IPOB leader,” he stated.
Buba also revealed that another commander, Emmanuel Onwugu, was apprehended in Mbano, Abia State, during a raid conducted by troops in Amaruku. “The operation at FOB Amaruku resulted in the arrest of yet another commander linked to IPOB,” he noted.
In addition, security forces captured Ifeanyi Rock, a notorious cult leader, along with ten of his associates in Arochukwu. “Our operations in Arochukwu led to the detention of Ifeanyi Rock and his ten combatants,” Buba confirmed.
The operations resulted in the recovery of substantial weaponry, including ten AK-47 rifles, 15 pump-action guns, four locally made firearms, and 153 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition.
From October 15 to 18, 2024, troops engaged IPOB/ESN terrorists in multiple operations, making contact in locations such as Orsu, Obubra, and Arochukwu. These encounters not only led to the elimination of 24 terrorists but also the rescue of a hostage.
Buba further reported that over the past week, a total of 140 terrorists were neutralized, and 135 suspects were apprehended across various operational zones in Nigeria. These efforts also included significant recoveries of arms and oil that had been stolen.
Additionally, troops were successful in disrupting illegal oil operations in the Niger Delta, preventing theft amounting to N1.7 billion and seizing over one million litres of crude oil.
For more updates, join our WhatsApp channel: Nigerian News Channel.